America's Memorial Day

Memorial Day started as an event to honor Union soldiers who had died during our Civil War.  It was, actually, inspired by the way people in the Southern states honored their dead.  After World War I, it was extended to include all men and women who died in any war or military action.
  Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day. The current name did not come into use until after World War II.  Originally, Decoration Day, and then Memorial Day, used to be held on May 30th, regardless of the day of the week upon which it fell.  In 1968, the Uniform Holidays Bill was passed as part of a move to use federal holidays to create three-day weekends.  Because of this law, Memorial Day has been observed officially on the last Monday in May since 1971.  Prior to today, many volunteers have placed American flags on each grave in national cemeteries, and on the graves of those who served our country in community cemeteries.
   It is traditional to fly the flag of the United States at half staff from dawn until noon on Memorial Day.  Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service.  Chicago celebrates those who gave their lives for our country with a giant parade and other festivities.  Here in Boulder, we have the Boulder Creek Festival, the annual running of the Bolder Boulder road race, and festivities at the University of Colorado stadium, including a fly over of Air Force jets and parachuters.  In Arlington, Virginia, the President of the United States (or his designee) will give a speech and place a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  In Mississippi, that bastion of the Old South, Memorial Day is combined with Jefferson Davis' Birthday.
  Memorial Day has become less of an occasion of remembrance.  Many people choose to hold picnics, sports events, and family gatherings on this weekend.  This day is traditionally seen as the start of the summer season for cultural events.  For the fashion conscious, it is seen as acceptable to wear white clothing, particularly shoes, from Memorial Day until Labor Day.  However, fewer and fewer people follow this rule of fashion and many wear white throughout the year.
   Finally, Memorial Day is a federal holiday.  All non-essential government offices are closed, as are schools, many businesses, and quite a few other organizations.  Many people see Memorial Day as an opportunity to go on a short vacation, or visit family and friends.  This does cause some congestion on highways and at airports.

Remember and Honor those who died

serving our country.