Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day,
is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. Every Memorial Day the U.S. flag is quickly raised the tops of flagpoles, slowly lowered to half-mast, and then raised again to full height at noon. The time at half-mast is meant to honor the million-plus fallen U.S. soldiers who have died for their country over the years. Re-raising the flag is meant to symbolize the resolve of the living to carry on the fight for freedom so that the nation's heroes will not have died in vain.
Observed on the last Monday of May, it was formerly known as Decoration Day and commemorates all men and women who have died in military service for the United States. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day and it is traditionally seen as the start of the summer season.
To ensure the sacrifices of America's fallen heroes are never forgotten, in December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed, and the president signed into law, "the National Moment of Remembrance Act". The National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3:00 P.M. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation.
Many families go on vacation on Memorial Day weekend, and many others stay home and enjoy family picnics and get-togethers. There is much patriotic significance attached to Memorial Day, and there are many events, both public and private, going on. If you travel by car for the weekend, drive safely since roads will be very busy at this time of year. Thanks to the media, we know about long lines at airports, so allow plenty of time to catch your flights.
Enjoy your holiday and this might be the perfect time to plan for your July 4th and Labor Day week-ends with family and friends! Click here to get some holiday weekend getaway ideas.
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