The Civil War claimed more lives than any conflict in U.S. History, requiring the establishment of the country’s first national cemeteries. Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day originated in the years following the civil war. It became an official federal holiday in 1971. People often confuse Memorial Day with Veteran’s Day. Although both are observed in honor of military personnel they both have different reasons for observance. Memorial Day is a day for honoring those military personnel who have died in service of their country, particularly those who passed away in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. Veteran’s Day is a day that is set aside to thank and honor those who served in the military during wartime and peacetime. Veteran’s day is largely intended to thank living veterans for their service. Both holidays are a way to acknowledge the selfless contributions to our nation’s security by all who serve in the military and show them how appreciative we all are for their service.
Here are a few facts about Memorial Day that you may not know!
- The flag is supposed to be flown at half-mast until noon, and then raised to full mast until sunset on Memorial Day.
- On Memorial Day, the President or someone he designates lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. The first military burials took place there 150 years ago, in May 1864.
- Waterloo, NY is considered to be the birthplace of Memorial Day
- There are more than 300,000 fallen soldiers buried at Arlington Cemetery. On average, there are 28 burials there each day.
- Memorial Day was first celebrated at Arlington National Cemetery on May 30th, 1868.
This Memorial Day, even if you don’t have time to attend a local parade or memorial service, try to remember to participate in the national moment of remembrance that takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time!
Resource: http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/memorial-day-history; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; U.S. Department of Defense, Arlington National Cemetery
*Please note our office will be closing at 1 p.m. this afternoon in observance of the Memorial Day Holiday. We will be closed on Monday, May 26th and will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, May 27th.
