Memorial Day is a U.S. federal holiday to mourn and honor deceased American service men and women who have died in the line of duty. Volunteers will place flags on their graves in national and local cemeteries today. (Comments are off today.)
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| Field of Flags in Liberty Park, Hudson, NH |
Today was first observed in 1868 as Decoration Day to honor Union soldiers who died in the American Civil War. Official recognition as a holiday spread among the states, beginning with NY in 1873, and by 1890, recognized by every state. It later expanded to become a day to remember U.S. military who fought and died in service during WWI and II. In 1871, Congress standardized its name to Memorial Day.
Many don’t know what they’re supposed to say today and often confuse the U.S. holidays of Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Memorial Day honors the dead; Veterans Day honors the living.
Happy Memorial Day is inappropriate as the day honors fallen military personnel who died in service to their country, it's a solemn day of remembrance rather than a celebration.
Thank you for your service (to active-duty troops) while well-intentioned, is actually the incorrect greeting for Memorial Day which is strictly for those who have died.
Memorial Day is the end of a three-day holiday weekend for many, and often celebrated with backyard get togethers with its historical context overlooked. That said, many, ourselves included, will attend local parades today and later gather with family and friends.
