He Memorial Day (Memorial Day in Spanish), celebrated on the last Monday in May, holds a special place in the hearts of Americans. It is a day to remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice, giving their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces. If you want to know more about this date in which tribute is paid to fallen heroes and why it is celebrated this year on may 27thI invite you to read this article until the end.
Today, this date serves as a solemn reminder of the immense price paid by members of America’s fallen heroes in wars throughout history. It is a day for families to visit the graves of fallen loved ones, for communities to organize parades and ceremonies, and for the entire nation to express its deep gratitude for the sacrifices made in defense of freedom.
Origin of Memorial Day
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day (Decoration Day in Spanish it is a solemn day dedicated to remembering and honoring to those who died serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Its rich history reflects the evolution of the way the nation commemorates war veterans.
Behind the Civil War, local communities across the country began holding commemorations in honor of fallen soldiers. In particular, the freed slaves of Charleston, South Carolina, organized a gathering on May 1, 1865 to honor and properly bury Union troops.
In 1868, General John A. Logan, leader of the Grand Army of the Republic, issued a proclamation designating May 30 as a national day of remembrance for soldiers of the American Civil War. This marked the first widespread observance of what would become the Memorial Day.
The first national commemoration took place in Arlington National Cemeterywhere thousands of participants decorated the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers. This powerful display of unity underlined the growing sentiment to honor all those who sacrificed their lives in the service of the nation.
New York was the first state to officially recognize Memorial Day as a holiday in 1873.. By the end of the 19th century, many other states followed suit, and the tradition gained momentum throughout the country. After World War I, it became an occasion to honor the memory of all American soldiers who died in war.
Difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day
Memorial Day coincides with the unofficial beginning of summer, with the arrival of heat and the closing of schools. This three-day weekend is a chance for many Americans to travel, attend community events or participate in major sporting activities, such as the iconic Indianapolis 500.
However, this date is not just about barbecues and entertainment, but a solemn occasion marked by visits to cemeteries, where American flags are often placed on the graves of fallen soldiers. A national minute of silence at 3:00 p.m. (local time) further underscores the importance of remembering those who died defending the nation.
On the other hand the Veterans Day, celebrated on November 11 each year, pays tribute to all veterans – living or deceased – who have served in the US military. While Memorial Day has a somber undertone, Veterans Day is a more festive occasion.
Why is Memorial Day celebrated on the last Monday in May?
In 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act (Uniformed Holiday Monday Law in Spanish) established Memorial Day as a federal holiday on the last Monday of May. This cemented the national importance of the day and ensured a time dedicated to remembrance and reflection.
Memorial Day is commemorated each year at Arlington National Cemetery with a ceremony in which a small American flag is placed on each grave. Traditionally, the president or vice president places a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
