Memorial Day, a federal holiday in the United States, is observed on the last Monday of May each year. It is a day to honor and remember the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. As the holiday approaches, it's essential to plan ahead and understand the significance of this day. Here are 12 Memorial Day facts to help you prepare and show your respect for the fallen heroes.
History of Memorial Day
The origins of Memorial Day date back to the Civil War, when families and communities would decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and hold ceremonies to honor their memory. Over time, the holiday evolved to include all Americans who died while serving in the military. In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday to be observed on the last Monday in May.
Key Facts About Memorial Day
Here are some key facts about Memorial Day:
- The first national Memorial Day ceremony was held on May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.
- The ceremony was organized by General John A. Logan, who was the commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, a veterans’ organization.
- Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day, because families would decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and other tributes.
- The holiday is now observed on the last Monday in May, but it was initially observed on May 30.
- The National Moment of Remembrance Act, passed in 2000, encourages all Americans to pause for one minute at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to remember and honor the fallen.
According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, more than 1.1 million Americans have died in military service since the Revolutionary War. This number includes:
| War | Number of Deaths |
|---|---|
| Revolutionary War | 25,000 |
| Civil War | 620,000 |
| World War I | 116,500 |
| World War II | 418,500 |
| Korean War | 36,500 |
| Vietnam War | 58,200 |
| War in Afghanistan | 2,300 |
| War in Iraq | 4,500 |
Planning Ahead for Memorial Day
To plan ahead for Memorial Day, consider visiting a national cemetery or attending a local ceremony to honor the fallen. You can also participate in the National Moment of Remembrance by pausing for one minute at 3:00 p.m. local time. Additionally, consider volunteering with a local veterans’ organization or donating to a charity that supports veterans and their families.
Ways to Show Respect on Memorial Day
Here are some ways to show respect on Memorial Day:
- Visit a national cemetery or memorial to pay your respects to the fallen.
- Attend a local ceremony or parade to honor the sacrifices of those who have died in service.
- Participate in the National Moment of Remembrance by pausing for one minute at 3:00 p.m. local time.
- Volunteer with a local veterans’ organization or donate to a charity that supports veterans and their families.
- Display the American flag at your home or business to show your respect and gratitude for the fallen.
What is the origin of Memorial Day?
+Memorial Day originated after the Civil War, when families and communities would decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and hold ceremonies to honor their memory.
How can I show respect on Memorial Day?
+You can show respect on Memorial Day by visiting a national cemetery or memorial, attending a local ceremony or parade, participating in the National Moment of Remembrance, volunteering with a local veterans’ organization, or donating to a charity that supports veterans and their families.
What is the National Moment of Remembrance?
+The National Moment of Remembrance is a moment of silence observed at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to honor the sacrifices of those who have died in service to our country.
