Memorial Day is a relatively new holiday in American history, taking on its current name and form in 1966, per President Lyndon B. Johnson. However, Americans have been celebrating a form of it since the Civil War, in honor of soldiers who had given their lives for our country. It also had a different name, better known as Decoration Day. Americans would go to local cemeteries and graveyards, strewing flowers on veterans’ graves, while singing hymns over them. The reasoning behind choosing the month of May had a lot to do with late Spring and flowers being in bloom across the country. Today, we usually leave small United States flags and a patriotic flower wreath.
One thing that has not changed is that we still honor all the graves in Arlington National Cemetery. Originally, Decoration Day was to honor Civil War soldiers only, but by the late 60s, the President changed it to honor all those who have lost their lives while in the line of duty. Another amazing addition to the celebration is in how the unknown soldiers tomb is honored. Each Memorial Day, either the President of the United States or the Vice President attends a special ceremony and then places a wreath on the unknown soldier’s tomb.
This incredible holiday was created for reflection, to ensure that our country’s fallen military are honored and observed. So, while you spend time with family friends, take a moment, say a prayer, or have a moment of silence to return the blessings that our great Nation’s fallen veterans have sent our way.
Happy Veterans Day from all of us at the library!
