What is memorial day for - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties.
- 2. It is observed on the last Monday of May each year and marks the unofficial start of summer.
- 3. The holiday was originally known as Decoration Day and was established after the Civil War to honor Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the conflict.
- 4. Memorial Day is a time for Americans to reflect on the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces and to remember those who have given their lives in service to their country.
- 5. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day to pay their respects to fallen soldiers and decorate their graves with flowers and flags.
- 6. In addition to honoring military personnel, Memorial Day is also a time to remember and recognize the sacrifices of military families who have lost loved ones in service to their country.
- 7. Many communities hold parades, ceremonies, and other events to commemorate Memorial Day and show support for the armed forces.
- 8. The National Moment of Remembrance, established by Congress in 2000, encourages all Americans to pause for a moment of silence at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to honor and remember the fallen.
- 9. Many people also use Memorial Day as an opportunity to participate in volunteer activities, such as helping to clean and maintain veterans' cemeteries or supporting organizations that assist military families.
- 10. Overall, Memorial Day is a solemn and important day to remember and honor the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their country. It serves as a reminder of the cost of freedom and the importance of honoring and preserving the memory of those who have served.