Memorial Day, commemorated every year on the final Monday of May, is a federal holiday in the United States that is used to memorialize and mourn the military who lost their lives fighting in the U.S. Armed Forces. Though most Americans acknowledge Memorial Day as the de facto beginning of summer—cued by family parties, barbecues, and shopping sales—the true intention of the day is one of serious remembrance and national contemplation. It is a period when people throughout the country stop to honor those who gave their lives defending their nation.
According to Britannica, Memorial Day's roots trace back to the period after the American Civil War, which saw more than 600,000 soldiers on both the Union and Confederate fronts lose their lives. Originally called "Decoration Day," the holiday originated as a people's movement when people decorated the graves of dead soldiers with flowers, flags, and wreaths.
It was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, after a call by General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, a Union veterans' group. Later on, the holiday came to commemorate all American forces that lost their lives in any war, not solely the Civil War.
By 1971, Memorial Day was duly declared a federal holiday and its celebration shifted to the last Monday in May, making Americans have a three-day weekend. This contributed to its solidification into American culture but also caused apprehension that the original purpose of the holiday would be lost with leisure activities and commercial interests.
Meaning and Purpose of Memorial Day
At its essence, Memorial Day is a remembrance day. It is reserved for remembering the men and women who died fighting for the United States military. Unlike Veterans Day, which honors all of those who served, Memorial Day is specifically for remembering those who died in service. The day reminds us solemnly of the price paid for war and the sacrifices made to safeguard the nation's freedom.
The name of the holiday, "Memorial Day," is to commemorate the dead. It is a day when Americans look back on the values and liberties secured at the ultimate costs of military members. It is regarded by many as a time to thank them and to never forget these sacrifices.
Official Memorial Day Traditions
A number of traditions are practiced across the country to commemorate the dead on Memorial Day:
- Touring Cemeteries and Memorials: Americans tour the burial sites of war dead, frequently putting flowers or tiny American flags on the graves as a token of respect. At Arlington National Cemetery, the "Flags In" ceremony is held, in which soldiers of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment place flags on over 260,000 graves.
- National Moment of Remembrance: At 3 p.m. local time, Americans are invited to stand at attention for a moment of silence in memory of those who died while in service.
- Parades: Memorial Day parades involving military personnel, veterans' organizations, and patriotic presentations are hosted by many cities and towns.
- Community Gatherings: Although not official, family picnics, barbecues, and public ceremonies have become part of the day, symbolizing remembrance and community spirit.
- Lowering the Flag: The U.S. flag is lowered to half-staff until noon, and then hoisted to full-staff for the rest of the day, representing mourning and also the nation's determination to carry on the struggle for freedom.
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Memorial Day is a somber day to remember the memory of those who lost their lives in service to the United States. Other than signaling the beginning of summer, it is a reflection day, a day of gratitude, and a day of togetherness.
Through its observances—whether paying respects at cemeteries, standing during a moment of silence, or attending community activities—Americans make sure the sacrifices of the fallen are not forgotten. As Americans come together annually, Memorial Day stands as a potent reminder of the eternal price of liberty and the value of honoring those who made it happen.
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