Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer in the United States for a few reasons. With school ending for summer break, warm weather finally returning, and outdoor events, it makes sense to mark the end of May this way. While this long weekend is full of summer kickoff BBQs, garage sales, and retail sales, it is important to note the reasoning behind this federal holiday.
The last Monday in May is always observed as Memorial Day. The 1971 “Uniform Monday Holiday Act” set this date. This allowed federal holidays, like Presidents' Day or Martin Luther King Jr. Day, to fall on Monday for consistency. Although Memorial Day was originally referred to as Decoration Day, the reason behind the holiday, honoring those who gave their life for their country, remained after the name change.
General John Logan is credited with the creation of Memorial Day. In May 1868, at the Arlington National Cemetery, over 3,000 people decorated more than 20,000 Civil War soldier's graves with flowers. General Ulysses S. Grant led the ceremony.
While it might be tempting to say “Happy Memorial Day,” it isn’t in the best taste. Memorial Day is about honoring those who died in military service. To show respect for this solemn day, it is suggested to say, "I hope you have a meaningful Memorial Day."
Memorial Day holds a few traditions. Poet John McCrae inspired people to wear poppies with his work, “In Flanders Fields”. Artificial poppies were originally sold to raise funds for children affected by war. More recently, Former President Bill Clinton instituted the National Moment of Remembrance.
Americans are to pause at 3:00 P.M for a minute of silence to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Written during the Civil War, “Taps” is played during Memorial Day services as a traditional tribute to fallen soldiers. American flags should be hung at half-staff until noon and then raised to full-staff until the sun retreats for the day.
If you’re looking for a memorable way to spend the day, consider decorating or cleaning Veteran’s graves in Wright County. Dows is host to Wright County’s Freedom Rock, decorated by Veteran Ray "Bubba" Sorensen. Visiting the mural is a great way to honor those who have passed for our country.
