Every year, Memorial Day in the United States is observed on the last Monday of May. It's a day dedicated to honouring and remembering the men and women who have died while serving in the US military. Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day and originated in the years following the Civil War. It became an official federal holiday in 1971. Memorial Day 2024 will be observed this year on Monday, May 27. Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States. From 1868 to 1970, Memorial Day was observed on May 30. However, since 1971, the annual event has been observed on the last Monday of May. 5 Things to Know About Memorial Day, Including Its Evolution and Controversies.

Memorial Day History

The first national observance of Memorial Day occurred on May 30, 1868. It was then known as Decoration Day. As per records, the holiday was proclaimed by Commander in Chief John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic to honour the Union soldiers who had died in the Civil War. This national observance was followed after by many local ones between the end of the Civil War and Logan's declaration. The National Cemetery Administration, a division of the Department of Veterans Affairs, credits Mary Ann Williams with originating the idea of strewing the graves of Civil War soldiers—Union and Confederate with flowers. The official recognition as a holiday spread among the states, beginning with New York in 1873. Peace Officers Memorial Day 2024 US Date, History and Significance: Here's All You Need To Know About the Day Dedicated to Law Enforcement Officers.

Memorial Day Significance

On Memorial Day, many people visit cemeteries and memorials to honour and mourn those who died while serving in the US military. Many volunteers place American flags on the graves of military personnel in national cemeteries. Memorial Day is also considered the unofficial beginning of summer. It's a time for reflection, gratitude, and remembrance for the sacrifices made by those who have served their country. In the US, many communities use Memorial Day as an opportunity to honour all veterans, living and deceased, and to recognise the bravery of those who continue to serve in the US military.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 26, 2024 08:31 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).