Memorial Day: A Time to Remember, Reflect, and Respect
For many Americans, Memorial Day evokes memories of hot dogs, hamburgers, swimming pools, boating, and summer fun. However, the final Monday in May is a time to honor and remember those who lost their lives while serving in the United States military.
It’s a holiday rich with American customs and history. The day began as “Decoration Day,” when mourners laid flowers on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers after the Civil War. Over time, Memorial Day has also come to symbolize the “unofficial” start of summer.
History of Memorial Day
When General Robert E. Lee surrendered the last major Confederate army to General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865, the Civil War officially ended. The four-year conflict had claimed the lives of over 620,000 soldiers.
In its aftermath, General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, a group of Union veterans, proclaimed May 30, 1868, as a day to honor the fallen soldiers. Logan chose May 30 because flowers would be in bloom across the country by then.
States began issuing proclamations, and the Army and Navy developed guidelines for proper observance at military facilities. That year, roughly 5,000 people attended the first Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.
Small American flags were placed on each grave, a tradition that continues at national cemeteries today. In recent times, many families have extended this custom to decorate the graves of all loved ones.
By 1890, every Northern state had declared Decoration Day a public holiday. Southern states, however, continued to honor their fallen soldiers on separate days until after World War I, when the holiday began to honor all American military personnel who died in service, not just those from the Civil War.
For many years, Memorial Day was observed on May 30. However, in 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, moving Memorial Day to the last Monday in May to create a three-day weekend for federal employees. The change officially took effect in 1971, and Memorial Day became a federal holiday.
Traditions of the Day
Many Americans observe Memorial Day by attending parades, hosting family gatherings, and visiting cemeteries or memorials.
It marks the beginning of summer and is often celebrated with beach trips, barbecues, and time spent outdoors with loved ones.
Despite the festive atmosphere, Memorial Day remains the most solemn of American holidays, paying tribute to those who gave their lives for the nation.
Cities and towns across the country host Memorial Day parades, often featuring military personnel and veterans. Major parades in Washington, D.C., Chicago, and New York draw large crowds.
Americans also place flowers and flags on the graves of fallen soldiers. Wearing or holding red poppies, a symbol of remembrance since World War I, is a common tradition. While many people plan weekend getaways or celebrations, these events are often balanced with moments of reflection.
Why Memorial Day Is Celebrated
i. Reflection
Memorial Day is a time for quiet reflection. Though it includes joyful gatherings and patriotic displays, the day is ultimately about remembering the men and women who sacrificed their lives for the country. Their courage inspires Americans to uphold the values they died defending. Children can write ‘thank you’ notes to veterans today in celebration of the day.
ii. Summer Is Almost Here
Although summer officially begins on June 21, Memorial Day is widely considered the start of the summer season. People look forward to sunny days, vacations, and time spent outdoors. Children especially enjoy the kickoff to summer activities, such as playing outside, swimming, etc. The holiday provides a perfect opportunity to clean the grill, open the pool, and enjoy the warm weather.
iii. Family
As a federal holiday, Memorial Day creates a long weekend that many families spend together. For those who have lost loved ones in the military, it holds deep personal meaning. Whether through shared memories or visits to cemeteries, the day strengthens the bond between generations.
How to Observe Memorial Day
a. Pay Your Respects
Place flowers or flags on the graves of fallen soldiers. If you don’t personally know anyone who served, visiting a local cemetery is still a meaningful way to honor those who gave everything for their country.
b. Take Part in the National Moment of Remembrance
By doing this, you will be joining millions of Americans in a nationwide effort to recognize Memorial Day as a day to remember those who sacrificed their life for their nation and its people.
c. Fly the Flag
Make sure to fly your American flag at half-mast until noon and then at full mast for the remainder of the day if you have one at home. For more than a century, people have been lowering and then raising the flag to represent America’s tenacity in the face of loss.
d. Take a Day Trip to the Water
Many people celebrate Memorial Day by enjoying lakes, rivers, or the ocean. Boating, fishing, and swimming are popular ways to spend the holiday. While relaxing, take a moment to remember the sacrifices that make such freedom possible.
Lessons Children Learn from Celebrating Memorial Day
1. Children learn to respect the sacrifice of these fallen soldiers
Memorial Day is such a good opportunity to teach children to appreciate the freedoms they enjoy. They will get to understand that some soldiers died to protect the nation. Also, they will learn to respect the military and those who serve.
2. Community and Patriotism
As parades take place in various cities across the nation, children will learn the power of unity and shared values. They see how communities come together to honor heroes.
3. Symbols and Traditions Matter
Children learn the value of symbols and ceremonies in preserving memory and national heritage.
4. The Importance of History
Through stories, visits to cemeteries, and participation in ceremonies, children learn about American history and the cost of war.
5. Selflessness and patriotism
Memorial Day is a great opportunity for children to learn to be selfless and patriotic. Learning from the soldiers who gave it all to protect others.
