For a long time folks debated whether Memorial Day was started by the Rebels or the Yankees. That was because it got its start following the Civil War and was then known as Decoration Day. Actually, it was due to the women on both sides of the Mason-Dixon line, who honored their fallen by decorating their graves.
Over the years more wars followed — The Spanish American War, World War I and World War II as well as “undeclared wars” like Korea and Viet Nam — and the number of graves grew and national cemeteries were created.
For years, commemorative events took place throughout the country on different days. Eventually May 30 was set as the day for remembrance. However, in 1968 Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act that declared that certain federal holidays would always take place on a Monday, allowing for a three-day holiday weekend for federal employees. The Act also established Memorial Day as a federal holiday.
Even if you don’t have someone who made the greatest sacrifice, you are the beneficiary of their legacy.
BTW, some people confuse Memorial Day with Veterans Day. While they are both federal holidays, they serve different purposes. Memorial Day commemorates the lives lost while serving in the military. Veterans Day honors all U.S. military veterans.
Paige McDaniel says
Thank you for helping us all remember our fallen heroes.