1. Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, was first observed on May 30, 1868, to honor the soldiers who died during the American Civil War.
2. The date of Memorial Day was officially changed to the last Monday in May in 1971 to create a long weekend for federal employees.
3. Memorial Day was originally focused on honoring those who died in the Civil War, but it was later expanded to include all American military personnel who died in any war or military action.
4. The wearing of red poppies on Memorial Day stems from the poem "In Flanders Fields" by John McCrae, which symbolizes the sacrifices of soldiers in World War I.
5. It is customary to fly the American flag at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day as a sign of respect for the fallen.
6. The National Moment of Remembrance was established by Congress in 2000, asking Americans to pause for a minute of silence at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day.
7. The National Memorial Day Concert is an annual event held on the west lawn of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., to honor and remember the sacrifices of military personnel.
8. Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia is one of the most well-known locations for Memorial Day observances, with the president laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
9. The "Taps" bugle call is often played at Memorial Day ceremonies, symbolizing a final farewell to fallen soldiers.
10. In addition to ceremonies and parades, many Americans also visit cemeteries and memorials to pay their respects to those who gave their lives in service to the country.
Reported 6 months ago
The article provides 10 Memorial Day facts, highlighting the holiday's origins in commemorating U.S. military personnel who died in service. Starting with the first Memorial Day in 1868, it explores key events such as James A. Garfield's speech, John A. Logan's role in founding Memorial Day, and the official recognition of the holiday as a federal holiday in 1971. The article also mentions traditions like flying flags at half-staff, wreath-laying ceremonies, wearing poppies, and observing a national moment of silence at 3 p.m. to honor fallen soldiers and reflect on the holiday's true meaning.