Memorial Day is a symbol for many things. For kids in school, it means school is almost out and summer is here. For many adults, it means a three-day weekend. But most important of all, it’s a day to honor those who have served this great nation through the United States Armed Forces. Many people across the country celebrate many ways, like visiting loved ones lost in battle at the cemetery, participating in or watching a commemorative parade, or going to a ceremony honoring those who have lost their life. To get those of you ready to honor those who have served and lost their life, here is a brief Memorial Day history lesson.
The Start of Memorial Day Trace Back to the End of the Civil War
The Civil War claimed more American lives than any other war in recorded U.S. history. After the war many towns and villages began honoring fallen soldiers during the war in the spring time every year. It wasn’t until General Logan came along and helped bring this tradition main stream.
General John Logan Started Memorial Day
John A. Logan was a Union Army general during the Civil War. While many towns and people claimed to be the birth of Memorial Day, it was really General Logan who took the holiday mainstream. In 1868, Logan issued General Order No. 11. This order called for a national day of remembrance for soldier who lost their lives during Civil War. This move by General Logan served as the foundation for what became Memorial Day.
Memorial Day was Originally Called Decoration Day
Back in the day, the holiday was celebrated by people decorating the graves of soldiers who gave their lives during the Civil War with flowers, flags, and much more. This is one of the reasons why Memorial Day is also known as Decoration Day.
Memorial Day didn’t Become an Official Holiday until 1971
1971 was a big year for Memorial Day. Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, making Memorial Day the official name for the holiday in May and changing the date of the holdiay from May 30 to the last Monday in May every year.
