It’s Not Just Beaches
and Barbecues
Before Memorial Day was recognized as the official start of summer – a three-day weekend of backyard barbecues and sun-filled days at the beach or pool – it assumed a more somber character.
In the beginning, it was all about paying tribute to our fallen military heroes. Here are five facts worth remembering:
#1. It’s Not the Same as Veterans Day
Although the two holidays are often confused, there are significant differences.
Memorial Day honors those who have died during their time of military service, particularly, those who died in battle. Veterans Day, on the other hand, honors all who have served in the armed forces over the years.- Memorial Day was established to honor the lives of the 620,000 soldiers killed in the Civil War; Veterans Day has its roots in World War I.
- Memorial Day is always observed on the last Monday in May; this year, it falls on May 30. However, Veterans Day is always observed on November 11, to honor the end of World War I on November 11, 1918.
#2. It Was Originally Called Decoration Day
On May 30, 1868, Union General and future U.S. President James Garfield addressed a crowd of 5,000 at Arlington National Cemetery, after which the guests decorated the graves of more than 20,000 Civil War dead.
As a result, the annual observance was long known as Decoration Day. After World War II, the holiday came to be called Memorial Day. It wasn’t until 1967 that the name became official.
#3. Its Official Birthplace is Waterloo, New York
Waterloo, New York, began convening an annual organized remembrance day on May 5, 1866 — two years before the first Decoration Day at Arlington National Cemetery. Businesses were closed and soldiers’ graves were adorned with flags and flowers.
Over the years, various other towns have claimed to be the birthplace of Memorial Day; but in 1966, President Lyndon Johnson proclaimed Waterloo as the official place of origin.
#4. Barbecues Are Historic, Too (Sort Of)
Our tradition of celebrating Memorial Day with a family barbecue began when cemeteries were common sites for picnics.
This practice is believed to have started even prior to the Civil War, but was particularly popular in the late 1800s, and into the 20th century. With no accessible public parks at that time, the tombstone-laden grounds were the next best thing.
Families would visit the burial sites of their fallen loved ones and then enjoy a picnic lunch on the family plot. These meals were often referred to as “dinner on the ground.”
#5. Remembering Is Required
Although it may not be common knowledge, in December 2000, Congress passed a law requiring Americans to honor the military dead. This National Moment of Remembrance instructs all Americans to pause for one minute of silence at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day to pay tribute to the fallen. The time of 3 p.m. was chosen because it “is the time when most Americans are enjoying their freedoms on the national holiday.”
With that thought in mind, we leave you with this poignant tribute:
Sources:
Featured Image: Adobe, License Granted
United Service Organization
National Archives
Library of Congress
Atlas Obscura