Memorial Day
Memorial Day, which falls on the last Monday of May, honors the
men and women who died while serving in the American military.
Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following
the Civil War and became an official...
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Memorial Day
Memorial Day, which falls on the last Monday of May, honors the
men and women who died while serving in the American military.
Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following
the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971.
Many
Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials,
holding family gatherings and participating in parades.
Unofficially, at
least, it marks the beginning of summer.
In 2011, Memorial Day is
observed on Monday, May 30.
Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day because it
was a time set aside to honor the nation sCivil War dead by decorating
their graves.
It was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, to honor the
sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, by proclamation of General John A.
Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of former
sailors and soldiers.
On May 5, 1868, Logan declared in General Order
No.
11 that:
The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpo
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