The last Monday in May is a federal holiday in the US. It’s called Memorial Day, and it’s meant to honor those who died while serving in the armed forces. Let’s learn more about this important American holiday with some Memorial Day history and traditions.

History

Image by Vjeran Pavic from flickr.com.

This holiday was started after the American Civil War (1861-1865) to honor the soldiers who had died. It was originally called Decoration Day, as people would decorate the graves of the fallen. Although many towns claim to have started the holiday, Waterloo, New York was designated as the official birthplace of Memorial Day. At first, many southern states refused to celebrate it. This was because the holiday was very closely associated with the Union.

After World War I, it was expanded to honor all of those who had died in battle. By then, many southern states started to celebrate the holiday. Previously, it was celebrated every year on May 30. Congress declared Memorial Day a federal holiday in 1971, meaning schools, banks, and government offices are closed. The holiday was changed to be on the last Monday of May to give people a 3-day weekend.

Traditions

Image by Tony Fischer from flickr.com.

On Memorial Day, American flags are flown at half-mast until noon. This is a way to honor the countless men and women who gave their lives for their country. The raising of the flag at noon symbolizes how the living will never forget their sacrifice and will continue the fight. Many people will visit a cemetery to put flags and flowers on the graves of those who died. The president will visit the Tomb of the Union Soldier in Arlington Cemetery, which represents all who died and couldn’t be identified.

Image by Dawn Paperin from flickr.com.

Cities and towns all across the country host a parade on Memorial Day. At these parades, marching bands will play patriotic songs such as “America the Beautiful” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag.” It’s also common to hear speeches from veterans and politicians. The biggest parade takes place in the nation’s capital of Washington, D.C. In addition to the parade, the city also hosts the National Memorial Day Concert.

Another Memorial Day tradition is the wearing of red poppy flowers. This custom dates back to a World War I poem written by John McCrae called “In Flanders Fields.” It begins:

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row.

A war secretary named Moina Michael read the poem and was so moved by it that she vowed to always wear a poppy flower to honors those soldiers who had died for their country. Thanks to her efforts, it has become an official memorial emblem for the holiday.

Image by sikeri from flickr.com.

As it’s a long weekend, many people like to travel or gather with family and friends. Memorial Day is thought of as the official start of the summer season, which lasts until Labor Day in the fall. All across the country, people head to the beach, baseball games, music festivals, and barbecues. One big Memorial Day tradition is the running of the Indianapolis 500, an auto race held on the day before the holiday.

Some have argued for the changing of Memorial Day back to May 30, as they say the long weekend has caused many to forget the true meaning of the holiday. In 2000, Congress passed the National Moment of Remembrance Act to encourage the entire country to take a moment of silence at 3 PM. While people can and should enjoy themselves on the holiday weekend, it’s important to show unity as a country and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Does your country have a holiday similar to Memorial Day? What is it called and when is it? How do people honor this day? Let us know in the comments!