Memorial Day
Originally known as Decoration Day that is a federal holiday in the United States. It is observed on the last Monday of May and serves as a day to honor and mourn the U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Memorial Day 2024 falls on Monday, May 27. On this day, the United States honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It is a time to reflect on their sacrifices and pay tribute to their service. Traditionally, people visit cemeteries and memorials, and many volunteers place American flags on each grave in national cemeteries. Additionally, Memorial Day is often seen as the unofficial start of the summer season, marked by picnics, sports events, and family gatherings. For those who follow fashion traditions, it’s acceptable to wear white clothing, particularly shoes, from Memorial Day until Labor Day.
Origin and History of Memorial Day
- The first national Memorial Day occurred on May 30, 1868. At that time, it was known as Decoration Day and was proclaimed by Commander in Chief John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic to honor Union soldiers who died in the American Civil War.
- The holiday followed many local observances that began after the Civil War. Mary Ann Williams is credited with originating the idea of decorating the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers with flowers.
- Official recognition as a holiday spread among the states, with New York adopting it in 1873. By 1890, every Union state had embraced Memorial Day.
- Over time, Memorial Day evolved into a day of remembrance for all members of the U.S. military who fought and died in service.
Observance
- On Memorial Day, people visit cemeteries and memorials to pay their respects to fallen military personnel.
- Volunteers place American flags on the graves of these servicemen and women in national cemeteries.
- Family and friends also come to lay flowers on the graves of those who died in the U.S. military.
- The holiday is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served their country.
Unofficial Beginning of Summer:
- Memorial Day is also considered the unofficial beginning of summer in the United States.
- Many people use this long weekend to enjoy outdoor activities, barbecues, and time with family and friends.
- National Parade in Washington, DC:
- The National Memorial Day Parade, presented by Boeing, will return live to Constitution Avenue in Washington, DC on May 27, 2024 at 2:00 PM. Pre-parade musical performances will start at 1:00 PM.
- The parade features personal stories of men and women who lost their lives in service to America, emphasizing the true meaning of the holiday – honoring our fallen heroes.
- You can attend the parade in person or watch it on television across the country and around the world. Additionally, there will be a special Independence Day television companion called “Our Sacred Honor: An American Salute” airing on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and CW stations nationwide.
- Davie, Florida Memorial Day Parade:
- The town of Davie, Florida, will hold its Memorial Day Parade on May 27, 2024. The parade will step off at 10:30 AM just west of the Davie Fire Administration building (6901 Orange Drive).
- The route continues east on Orange Drive to Southwest 65th Way and then north to the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds (4201 Rodeo Way).
- Charlestown, Rhode Island Memorial Day Parade:
- Charlestown, Rhode Island, will host its Memorial Day parade on May 27, 2024. The parade will kick off on Old Post Road at 1:00 PM.
- During the parade, there will be observances at Cross Mills Baptist Church and Cold Brook. After the parade, there will be a gathering at the Charleston Naval Airfield Memorial at Ninigret Park.
Conclusion
Memorial Day, observed on May 27, 2024, is a day of remembrance and honor for the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives in military service. People across the United States participate in parades, decorate graves with flowers, and pay tribute to these fallen heroes. Let us remember their sacrifice and express our gratitude.
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