Memorial Day

5/22/2015 (Permalink)

photo credit: handsonsuburbanchicago.org

Every year we gather around with friends and family, put some burgers on the grill and just enjoy a national holiday aka a day off from work for most.  But there is something more to this day, something bigger than just putting your American flag out on your front porch, its about remember what the day is, to honor our fallen soldiers.  

Memorial Day started as an event to honor Union soldiers, who had died during the American Civil War.  It was inspired by the way people in the Southern states honored their dead.  After World War l, it was extended to include all men and women who died in war or military action.

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day.  The current name for this day did not come into use until after World War ll.  Decoration Day and then Memorail Day used to be held on May 30, regaurdless of the day of the week, on which it fell.  In 1968, the Uniform Holidays Bill was passed as part of a move to use federal holidays to create three-day weekends.  This meant that  from 197 Memorial Day holiday has been officially observed on the last Monday in May.  However it did take a longer period for all American states to recognize the new date.  

Memorial Day is a federal holiday.  all non-essential Government offices are closed, as are schools, businesses and other organizations.  Most public transit systems do not run on their regular schedule.  Many people see Memorial Day weekend as an opportunity to go on a short vacation or visit family and friends.  

It is traditional to fly the flag of the United States at half mast from dawn until noon.  Many people visit cemeteries and memorails, particularly to honor those who have died in military service.  Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries.