Memorial Day seems like it falls early this year, but it’s always the last Monday in May. The holiday marks the kick-off for summer fun, though it’s important to remember the true meaning of the day – to honor all of the men and women who died serving our country. Do you know how the holiday came about? Here is an abbreviated version of the wonderful history of Memorial Day that The Department of Veterans Affairs provides on their website:
Decoration Day
Three years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans — the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) — established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30. It is believed that date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country. The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.
By the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held on May 30 throughout the nation. State legislatures passed proclamations designating the day, and the Army and Navy adopted regulations for proper observance at their facilities. It was not until after World War I, however, that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, though it is still often called Decoration Day. It was then also placed on the last Monday in May, as were some other federal holidays.
Putting the Memorial Back in Memorial Day
In December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed and the president signed into law “The National Moment of Remembrance Act.” The Act encourages Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation. Founder Carmella LaSpada states: “It’s a way we can all help put the memorial back in Memorial Day.” At ID Edge, we strive to honor veterans year-round by donating $1 from every sale to the Disabled American Veterans organization, an advocacy and assistance group.
Have fun on Monday, but take pause to remember the true meaning behind the holiday. In the comments below, tell us what you’re doing to celebrate and how you’ll put the memorial back in Memorial Day.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia