Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day was a day of remembrance for those fallen soldiers who served their country. The first official day of observation of the holiday was on May 30, 1868 with the placing of flowers on the grave sites of union and confederate servicemen at Arlington National Cemetery.
Since then, each year, it continues to be the setting of the traditional ceremonial placement of flags on the graves of all the soldiers buried there. A wreath is placed on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by the President or Vice President of the United States.
Controversial Memorial Day Beginnings
Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday in May and is a national holiday which culminates in a federal 3-day weekend. Regardless of controversy over Memorial Day's place of origin with many locations vying for the right to call it "home", President Lyndon Johnson proclaimed Waterloo, NY it's birthplace in May, 1966. Although Northern states observed Memorial Day, it was not until after World War I when the day became one of remembrance of American soldiers who died in all wars- not just the Civil War- that southern states would begin to acknowledge it. Currently, though all states observe Memorial Day on the same day, many southern states also have a separate day of remembrance specifically to honor Confederate soldiers who died in battle during the Civil War.
Celebrate the Passing of Spring Into Summer
Often referred to as one of the "bookend" weekends of summer (Labor Day being the other), Memorial Day is a reminder that summer time is not far away.
- Put up mini flags at the cemetery if no civic group does this for deceased servicemen.
- Show children the correct way to display and fold an American flag.
- Plant flowers or memorial gardens to honor loved ones.
- Enjoy picnics, outdoor concerts and the opening of seasonal eateries and attractions.
- Watch or participate in a community parade.
- Make patriotic pinwheels, flags and other crafts with children.
Proper Display of The American Flag
On Memorial Day, in honor of America's fallen soldiers, the American flag is to be raised fully then immediately lowered to half-staff from sun-up until noontime. At noon, it is raised fully once more. When removed at sundown, the flag should not touch the ground. An American flag may remain flying after dark with proper illumination focused on it except in inclement weather.
Honor Those Who Have Served in the Armed Forces
Over the Memorial Day weekend, make time to honor and remember the many service men and women who have given their lives for their country. Take a moment of silent prayer and salute for the fallen heroes who have given selflessly to protect and serve. Wear red poppies made by disabled veterans and distributed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, plant flowers and hang flags to commemorate the soldiers from the near and distant past. Honor the servicemen missing in action and those who were, or are, prisoners of war.
Finally, take a moment to reflect on the duties of the service men and women who currently serve their country and make Memorial Day weekend celebratory parades, picnics and other activities possible for all.
Sources:
PBS.org: Memorial Day Meaning and History
US Dept. of Government Affairs
Shirley Philbrick - As a Licensed Massage Therapist, Shirley Philbrick has an extensive background and interest in the healing arts and healthy living. She ...
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