Memo
rial Day, formerly Decoration Day, is a Federally observed holiday in the United States. It is dedicated to soldiers who died for their country! It is always the last Monday, in May…which happens to be May 30th for 2011. It was first started following the American Civil War to honor the Confederate and Union soldiers who gave their lives to fight for freedom and beliefs. It was extended after War World I to honor all American soldiers who have given their lives, in all wars.
It is now not only a day of observance for lost loved ones, but also to mark the start of the summer season. Families celebrate with get-togethers, festivals, shopping, beach trips and racing, like the Coco-Cola 600 scheduled this weekend, at the Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Originally, it was named Decoration Day until 1882. Then, the name change gradually became more common after WWI. However, it wasn’t officially renamed by Federal Law until 1967. In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill whereby three holidays were moved to a Monday to create a 3-day weekend holiday celebration. The other two holidays were Washington’s Birthday and Veteran’s Day.
There are several traditional observances: The Indianapolis 500 and The Coca-Cola 600 will take place on Sunday. The National Memorial Day Concert will take place on the west lawn of the US Capitol and is being broadcast by PBS and NPR. The most observed tradition is flying the American flag at half-staff, from dawn until noon.
How will you celebrate your Memorial Day?
Written by: Mechelle Cranford
ycharlotte4you 