Memorial Day Honors Fallen Veterans
Memorial Day Honors Fallen Veterans
Originally known as Decoration Day, a name derived from the early tradition of decorating graves with flowers, wreaths and flags, Memorial Day holds a significant place in our history.
The name change to Memorial Day was a symbolic shift that emphasized the holiday’s focus on remembering and honoring the sacrifices of our fallen soldiers. It was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, by proclamation of Gen. John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of former Union sailors and soldiers, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, marking a pivotal moment in our nation’s remembrance of its fallen heroes.
During that first national commemoration, former Union Gen. and sitting Ohio Congressman James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, after which 5,000 participants helped to decorate the graves of the more than 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers who were buried there.
This national event galvanized efforts to honor and remember fallen soldiers that began with local observances at burial grounds in several towns throughout the United States following the end of the Civil War, such as the May 1, 1865 gathering in Charle-ston, South Carolina, organized by formerly enslaved people to pay tribute and give proper burial to Union troops.
In 1873, New York was the first state to designate Memorial Day as a legal holiday. By the late 1800s, many more cities and communities observed it, and several states had declared it a legal holiday.
After World War I, Memorial Day evolved into an occasion to honor those who died in all of America’s wars. This evolution, rooted in respect and gratitude for our fallen heroes, was a testament to the enduring tradition and heritage of Memorial Day throughout the United States.
In 1971, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, establishing Memorial Day as being commemorated on the last Monday of May.
Each year, Memorial Day is solemnly commemorated at Arlington National Cemetery with a ceremony that underscores the respect and gratitude we hold for our fallen heroes.
During this ceremony, a small American flag is placed on each grave, a poignant symbol of remembrance. The President or Vice President also participates, laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a gesture that honors all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
