Observed annually on the final Monday in May, Memorial Day is a federally recognized holiday in the United States. Since 1868, it has marked a time for remembering the service members who lost their lives in service to the country during the Civil War. After World War II, the concept was expanded to include solders who served in any war.
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.
Official traditions include the flying of the flag at half mast until noon on the holiday. A national moment of remembrance is recognized at 3 o'clock in the afternoon when all citizens are encouraged to pay silent tribute to the fallen.
For more than two decades, PBS has hosted a concert on the west lawn of the Capitol. The event is designed to be uplifting with documentary film footage, live music and dramatic readings appropriate for 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.
People living in America have now come to think of Memorial Day weekend as the start of the summer season. The school year has ended and families are free to gather together for a trip to the beach, a pool party or a barbecue. Retailers also use the long weekend to attract consumers by offering seasonal discounts.
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.
Official traditions include the flying of the flag at half mast until noon on the holiday. A national moment of remembrance is recognized at 3 o'clock in the afternoon when all citizens are encouraged to pay silent tribute to the fallen.
For more than two decades, PBS has hosted a concert on the west lawn of the Capitol. The event is designed to be uplifting with documentary film footage, live music and dramatic readings appropriate for 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.
People living in America have now come to think of Memorial Day weekend as the start of the summer season. The school year has ended and families are free to gather together for a trip to the beach, a pool party or a barbecue. Retailers also use the long weekend to attract consumers by offering seasonal discounts.
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