A Short History of Memorial Day
Memorial Day is held annually on the last Monday of May. It is America's favorite federal holidays as it is an official start of the summer season. Besides this, it is also an emotional holiday for many people because this day honors the fallen soldiers of the US Army. The history of this day dates back to the 19th century and is more complex than it appears.
No one is sure when and where the first Memorial Day was held. It is documented but many towns throughout the country began celebrating their dead after the end of Civil War in 1865. Towns from North and South participated in this annual tradition. It was soon known as the ‘Decoration Day.' It got its name from the custom of decorating soldier's graves.
Waterloo, New York was one town that became famous for its celebration of Decoration Day. Its residents started this tradition in 1866 holding it for a long time every year at the same date. On 1868, Decoration Day became a national event when Gen John Logan declared its value for the entire nation. The first official Decoration Day was held on 30 May 1868.
In 1967, Decoration Day officially became a Memorial Day despite its name was used since the end of 10th century and was popular after the Second World War. After a year, Memorial Day became a ‘uniform' holiday and was declared to be held on the last Monday of May instead of May 30. The underlying principle was for three important federal holidays to provide America with a long weekend every year.
Like many holidays, time has somehow lessened the historical importance of Memorial Day in people's minds. The US government still holds a service every year to commemorate its fallen soldiers. The ceremony is traditionally held every year in Arlington Military Cemetery which is attended by thousands of people. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is particularly honored and the nation is addressed by the President.
At present, Americans observe Memorial Day not only to commemorate the fallen Civil War veterans but also to honor all American soldiers who laid their lives in war. On the same hand, Memorial Day still remains more than just a day off from work for Americans. This holiday is also a fun day for celebrating the arrival of warmer weather.
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When you think of Memorial Day weekend, what comes to your mind? Is it the horrible traffic you are gonna have to face? The barbeques, swimming, and fun in the sun? Does it make you think of coolers filled with ice and beer or soda? If so, then you, like many others, have forgotton what Memorial Day is truly about. And I'm not speaking of a guarenteed Monday off of work!
There are certain holidays within our culture that we generally take time to recognize, reverence, and reflect upon the significance of the day or event we are celebrating. Unfortunately, there are also other holidays that the majority of people within our culture view as just a day off work and a perfect opportunity to have a BBQ. Let’s be honest, nobody is opposed to having a day off work, and I’ll be the first to admit that having a BBQ with family and friends is enjoyable; however, let us...
Memorial Day is the most special day in US history. It's a day to remember soldiers who scarified their lives in defending United States and making this country a great country. It's also an emotional day for most Americans because they pay tribute to the souls of fallen soldiers of the US Army. Many people follow the tradition of decorating the graves of troops and this is why this day is also celebrated as the 'Decoration Day'.
If you are looking for famous Memorial Day quotes, you will find a lot on the Net. These quotes are meant to commemorate one of the most important holidays in the United States - Memorial Day.
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