Although Memorial Day, the last Monday in May, did not become an official federal holiday until 1971, it has been recognized as a day of honoring those who died while serving in the American military for much longer. Memorial Day has its roots in ancient Greek traditions to honor fallen soldiers. Americans observe the holiday by visiting and decorating graves, participating in family gatherings, and taking part in patriotic parades.

Disputed Origins

Numerous towns claim to be the inspiration for the first Memorial Day—Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, Columbus, Mississippi, Macon, Georgia, and Carbondale, Illinois among them. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson officially declared Waterloo, New York as the official birthplace of Memorial Day because it was the first to make the day an annual community-wide event. All locations would agree, however, that the true inspiration for Memorial Day comes from those who fought bravely and died bravely while serving in the military.

Decoration Day

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day, a day set aside to decorate the graves of those who died during the Civil War. The first widespread observance of Decoration Day occurred on May 30, 1868 and stemmed from General John Logan's declaration that the day would be set aside for decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. Future president and General James Garfield memorialized the occasion with a speech at Arlington National Cemetery. Memorial Day is still celebrated annually at Arlington National Cemetery with a small American flag being placed on each grave.

Memorial Day

By the late 1800s, many communities throughout the United States observed Memorial Day. After World War I, Memorial Day became a day to honor American military members who had died in all wars, not just the Civil War. In 1971, it was declared an official holiday to take place on the last Monday in May. The holiday, which to many announces the arrival of summer, has become a day off from work and an excuse to head to the beach for some. It is always important, however, to acknowledge the holiday's roots and pay tribute to soldiers who gave their life for freedom.