Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed annually in the United States on the last Monday of May. Formerly known as Decoration Day, it originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the fallen Union Soldiers of the Civil War. By the 20th century Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died in all wars. Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who died while serviing in the United States Armed Forces. As a marker it typically marks the start of the summer vacation season, while Labor Day marks its end.

Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service. Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries. By the early 20th century, memorial Day was an occasion for more general expressions of memory, as people visited the graves of their deceased relatives in church cemeteries, whether they had served in the military or not. It also became a long…

Remember the brave soldiers who gave their lives
For our freedom,
God Bless them all these courageous
Men and women.

They fought on land,
Others at sea,
Sacrificing their lives for
You and me.

Schools and offices respect these heroes
From the past,
By flying our beautiful flag
At half-mast.

As you watch the parade and hear
The trumpets play,
Please think about what we celebrate on
Memorial Day.

© 2001 Luke, 3rd Grader, Academy Elementary School, Madison, Connecticut