Memorial Day and Veterans Day: Honoring Those Who Served
For many, Memorial Day and Veterans Day are just extra days off from work or school. But for veterans, members of the U.S. armed services, and their families, these days hold a much deeper meaning. They are days to honor and remember those who have served and sacrificed for our country. While both holidays may seem similar, they actually have distinct meanings and traditions. Let’s take a closer look at the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
What is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is a federal holiday that is observed on the last Monday of May. It is a day to honor and remember those who have died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it has its roots in the Civil War when people began decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers in the spring. Over time, the holiday evolved to include all those who have died in military service.
When is Memorial Day?
As mentioned, Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May. This was mandated by Congress in 1971 to create a three-day weekend for federal employees.
How did Memorial Day get started?
The origins of Memorial Day can be traced back to the Civil War, but it wasn’t officially recognized as a holiday until 1868. At that time, it was called Decoration Day and was designated as a day to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. Over the years, the holiday evolved to include parades, ceremonies, and other traditions to honor those who have died in military service.
How is Memorial Day celebrated?
For many, Memorial Day is a time to kick off the summer season with barbecues, pool parties, and trips to the beach. However, it is important to remember the true meaning of the holiday. Across the country, there are ceremonies and events held to honor fallen soldiers. Flags are flown at half-staff as a sign of respect, and many people wear red poppy flowers on their chests. The red poppy has become a symbol of remembrance for veterans after World War I veteran Colonel John McCrae wrote a poem about the red poppies that grew on the graves of fallen soldiers. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) has adopted the red poppy as their official memorial flower and sells artificial poppies to raise money for veterans.
What is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is also a federal holiday, but it has a different purpose. It is a day to honor and thank all those who have served in the U.S. military, both living and deceased.
When is Veterans Day celebrated?
Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day is always observed on November 11th, regardless of the day of the week. However, many communities hold their celebrations over the weekend if the holiday falls on a weekday.
How did Veterans Day get started?
Veterans Day has its roots in Armistice Day, which was first celebrated in 1919 to commemorate the end of World War I. In 1954, Congress and President Dwight D. Eisenhower changed the holiday to Veterans Day to honor all veterans of the U.S. military. This change was made to recognize the sacrifices of all those who have served, not just those who served in World War I.
How is Veterans Day celebrated?
The national ceremony for Veterans Day is held at the memorial amphitheater near the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery. The president typically attends and participates in the laying of a presidential wreath on the Tomb of the Unknowns. Across the country, there are parades, ceremonies, and other events to honor and thank veterans for their service.
In conclusion, Memorial Day and Veterans Day are two important holidays that hold a special place in the hearts of veterans and their families. While Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor those who have died in military service, Veterans Day is a day to thank and show appreciation for all those who have served. So this year, as we enjoy our extra day off, let’s take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by our brave men and women in uniform. Let’s honor their memory and thank them for their service.
