Memorial Day 27 May 2024

What is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is associated with the U.S. Military. This day honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. On this day, people visit the memorials to respect their loved ones who sacrificed their lives. However patriotic parades and many events are held for awareness of the importance of this day. 

When is Memorial Day Observed in 2024?

This day is celebrated on the last Monday of May every year. So the dates may vary from year to year. But in 2024 this military day is celebrated on 27th of May. 

When the Day Was Observed for the First Time?

It was observed on 30th May 1868 after the Civil War to honor the people who died during the war. But later on, it was expended for all the military personnel who have served and died during military action or war. 

How Memorial Day was Celebrated for the First Time?

Primarily the day was known as the Decorations Day. The day was celebrated for the first time by placing flowers on the graves of Union Soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. General John A. Logan was the person who gave the idea for decorations. He was the commander in chief of the Grand Army.    

Later on, it became the Feredal Holiday in 1971 and was renamed Memorial Day. 

Historic Facts Behind Memorial Day Observance 

• The war lasted from 1861 to 1865 and was the deadliest in American History. 
• Almost 620,000 soldiers lost their lives during that period. 
• Different communities throughout America held tributes who died during the war. 
• The most important tribute was held in Charleston (South Carolina) in May 1865.
• In honor of Union soldiers who died as prisoners of war in a Confederate Prison camp, a group of slaves gathered and saluted them. 
• A parade ceremony was also held to commemorate their success. 
• In 1868, General John A. Logan proclaimed it a national day for those who sacrificed their lives during the war.
• The first Memorial Day was marked by decorating the graves with flowers to honor their success and sacrifice.
• Under an act of Congress in 1971, it was declared the Federal Holiday. 

Latest Trends to Celebrate Memorial Day 

There are different ways to make the celebrations amazing on this historic day. Such as

• Attend the Local Memorial Day ceremony in your area. 
• Visit a cemetery to show your respect for the people who died. 
• Join “National Moment of Remembrance” at 3:00 PM, where everyone pauses for one minute to honor the dead people during the war.
• Plan a patriotic movie or documentary with your friends or family members. 
• Consider making colorful decorations for the event such as; red, white, and blue. 
• Go for a nature walk and reflect on the sacrifice of people who have served in the military. 
• Host a party and let everyone share a unique historical point about this historic day. 
• Plant a tree in remembrance of fallen soldiers. 
• Close your business or any other ways of work on this day to show your love and honor for dead soldiers. 

Final Verdict 

National Memorial Day is one of the most significant days in U.S. history. The day is associated with the sacrifice of the U.S. Military during the 1861-1865 war. Because 620,000 soldiers died while they were serving for their country. The day is specifically celebrated to honor and respect those who served America.