Posted May 26th, 2017
By Kris Powers
Memorial Day is an American holiday observed on the last Monday of May. It is a day of remembrance, a time to honor the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971.
Cities and towns across the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, and military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations are often proud participants. Some of the largest parades take place in Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C.
Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in various activities in their hometowns. Many people take weekend trips or host parties and cook-outs on the holiday, perhaps because the day unofficially marks the beginning of summer.
Wherever you find yourself on Monday, May 29th, please take a moment and give thanks for the men and women who gave their lives protecting our country!
