Citizens living in the United States have observed Memorial Day since the middle part of the 19th century. It was originally recognized on May 30 until an official declaration set the celebration on the final Monday of May. The holiday was established to focus attention on those military members who gave their lives in service to their country. The honor was once reserved for soldiers who served in the Civil War but following World Word II all war veterans were included in this national tribute.
When first introduced, it was known as Decorating Day because people would traditionally place flowers onto the graves of the deceased. Small American flags are now placed at each gravestone at Arlington National Ceremony on the Thursday before the holiday. This tradition is also observed at other national cemeteries.
Citizens are asked to participate in a silent tribute by observing the national moment of remembrance at precisely 3 p. M. Local time. The flag is supposed to be flown at half mast from dawn to noon.
An annual concert has been staged on the lawn outside the Capitol building for the past two decades. The festive event is hosted and televised by PBS and includes live music, dramatic readings and documentary film footage to mark the occasion.
In 1915, a poet named Moina Michael came up with the idea of wearing a red poppy in commemoration of those who died in war. She sold poppies to raise money for servicemen in need. Within a decade, the VFW picked up on this custom and became the first organization to sell the poppies nationally. Known as the Buddy Poppy program, residents in homes for veterans and patients in medical facilities prepare the poppies and collect donations.
The Memorial Day weekend has come to represent the unofficial beginning of summer for most Americans. Kids are out of school and families are able to head to the beach, plan a pool party or host a family barbecue to mark the occasion. Many retailers take advantage of this holiday to hold seasonal sales.
When first introduced, it was known as Decorating Day because people would traditionally place flowers onto the graves of the deceased. Small American flags are now placed at each gravestone at Arlington National Ceremony on the Thursday before the holiday. This tradition is also observed at other national cemeteries.
Citizens are asked to participate in a silent tribute by observing the national moment of remembrance at precisely 3 p. M. Local time. The flag is supposed to be flown at half mast from dawn to noon.
An annual concert has been staged on the lawn outside the Capitol building for the past two decades. The festive event is hosted and televised by PBS and includes live music, dramatic readings and documentary film footage to mark the occasion.
In 1915, a poet named Moina Michael came up with the idea of wearing a red poppy in commemoration of those who died in war. She sold poppies to raise money for servicemen in need. Within a decade, the VFW picked up on this custom and became the first organization to sell the poppies nationally. Known as the Buddy Poppy program, residents in homes for veterans and patients in medical facilities prepare the poppies and collect donations.
The Memorial Day weekend has come to represent the unofficial beginning of summer for most Americans. Kids are out of school and families are able to head to the beach, plan a pool party or host a family barbecue to mark the occasion. Many retailers take advantage of this holiday to hold seasonal sales.
About the Author:
Learn more about Memorial Day weekend topics. Stop by HomeFellas where you can find Memorial Day sales.
No comments:
Post a Comment