Origins of Memorial Day and How to Make it Special

Each year, Memorial Day serves as a national day of remembrance for the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. While today the holiday often includes parades, ceremonies, and family gatherings, its origins are deeply rooted in post-Civil War America and shaped by communities seeking to honor their dead.

Early Beginnings: Decoration Day

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day, a name that reflected the early tradition of decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers, flags, and wreaths. The practice began spontaneously in various towns and cities across both the North and South after the Civil War—the deadliest conflict in American history, with over 620,000 casualties.

One of the earliest documented observances occurred on May 1, 1865, in Charleston, South Carolina, when formerly enslaved African Americans held a ceremony to honor Union soldiers who had died in a Confederate prison camp. They cleaned and landscaped the burial ground and held a parade of thousands—one of the first large-scale public memorials for fallen soldiers.

From Decoration Day to Memorial Day

By the early 20th century, the term "Memorial Day" became more commonly used. However, it wasn’t until 1971 that Memorial Day was officially declared a federal holiday by Congress, as part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which moved the observance to the last Monday in May. The change created a three-day weekend, which helped encourage broader public participation—but also, over time, shifted some focus toward leisure and travel rather than remembrance.

Preserving the Meaning

Despite its evolution, many Americans continue to uphold the original purpose of Memorial Day. National cemeteries hold solemn ceremonies, families visit the graves of loved ones, and communities observe moments of silence or fly the flag at half-staff.

In 2000, Congress passed the National Moment of Remembrance Act, encouraging all Americans to pause at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to honor those who have died in military service.

Here are seven meaningful ways to observe Memorial Day while keeping its true spirit alive:

1. Attend a Memorial Day Ceremony or Parade

Communities across the nation host parades and ceremonies to pay tribute to fallen soldiers. These events often include veterans, active-duty service members, and Gold Star families. Participating in or even just attending one of these gatherings is a visible way to show respect and solidarity.

2. Visit a Veteran’s Cemetery

A visit to a local veterans' cemetery can be a powerful way to connect with the meaning of the holiday. Many people bring flags, flowers, or wreaths to lay on graves. You can also volunteer with organizations like the American Legion or local scout troops that help place flags at every veteran’s grave.

3. Observe the National Moment of Remembrance

At 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, Americans are encouraged to pause for a moment of silence to honor those who died in military service. It’s a simple yet profound gesture of unity and respect.

4. Learn a Soldier’s Story

Behind every name etched on a memorial or gravestone is a story. Websites like the Veterans Legacy Memorial or the Library of Congress Veterans History Project offer access to letters, interviews, and photographs of fallen service members. Sharing their stories with family or friends helps keep their memory alive.

5. Support Gold Star Families

Memorial Day can be especially difficult for families who have lost a loved one in service. Consider supporting them by donating to organizations like the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) or writing a heartfelt message of thanks and remembrance.

6. Fly the American Flag Respectfully

If you choose to fly the flag on Memorial Day, follow proper flag etiquette: it should be flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day. This tradition honors both the fallen and the living who continue to serve.

7. Incorporate Reflection into Your Traditions

Barbecues and time with family are part of many Memorial Day weekends—and that’s okay. Consider starting a new tradition like reading a poem, saying a prayer, or playing “Taps” before your meal. Even a few minutes of reflection can add depth and purpose to your day.

Memorial Day is more than a long weekend; it's a solemn reminder of the cost of freedom. By taking time to remember and honor those who gave everything, we ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten. Whether through quiet reflection or public acts of remembrance, every thoughtful gesture counts.