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For many, Memorial Day signifies the unofficial start of summer, marked by barbecues, lake trips and a welcome three-day weekend. However, beneath the surface of these modern traditions lies a profound history rooted in remembrance and sacrifice. This solemn day, observed annually on the last Monday of May, carries a weight of significance that extends far beyond a day off work.

• Originally called “Decoration Day,” the first widespread commemoration occurred on May 30, 1868, when Gen. John A. Logan called for a national day to decorate the graves of Civil War soldiers with flowers.
• After World War I, the holiday expanded to honor Americans who have died in all wars, not just the Civil War.
• It wasn’t until the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1968 that Memorial Day was officially moved to the last Monday in May, creating a three-day weekend. This change went into effect in 1971. 
• In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson officially declared Waterloo, New York, the “birthplace” of Memorial Day, as the town had been consistently holding community-wide observances since 1866. However, numerous other towns also claim early origins.
• A significant symbol of Memorial Day is the red poppy, inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields” during World War I. Wearing a poppy honors those who have fallen in service.
• Since 2000, a National Moment of Remembrance has been observed at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, encouraging all Americans to pause for a minute of silence to honor the fallen.
• On Memorial Day, it is customary to fly the American flag at half-staff from sunrise until noon, and then raise it to full staff for the rest of the day.
• Memorial Day is distinct from Veterans Day. Memorial Day honors those who died while serving in the U.S. military, while Veterans Day, observed in November, honors all who have served.

Sources: The Origins of Memorial Day, Veterans Affairs (va.gov) and Memorial Day History, National Cemetery Administration (cem.va.gov).