Memorial Day

Honor the Fallen this Memorial Day

On Memorial Day, we pause to reflect on the lives of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country and the families and friends they left behind. Their courage and commitment continue to inspire us, and their legacy is woven into the fabric of our nation, reminding us of the enduring strength and resilience of the military community.

Memorial Day Honor Wall

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Honor our fallen heroes by writing a letter of thanks and remembrance on our Memorial Day Honor Wall.

Let's keep their memory alive and their legacy of bravery shining bright.

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Memorial Day Honor Wall

Remembering our dear friend, Major Vic Gronenthal, US Army. We miss your silly antics! We still think of you often.

Meghan W.

O'Fallon, IL

Ad Astra Per Aspera. Thank You for being Semper Fidelis. Love You, Always. Stephanie Louise Daggett-Velez. Honoring Our Heroes.

Stephanie Louise D.

Roseville, CA

In honor of my good friend James R. Dragoti who died in Vietnam, November, 1965. A true American hero.

Patrick L.

Bel Air, MD

Thanks for the service of some, and in sums for us all. Sacrifice is the greatest love of all. John 15:13

L B.

Anchorage, AK

On this Memorial Day I would like to remember my ex-husband, Dorian White, for his service and commitment to our wonderful country. We miss him deeply.

Jamie W.

Cincinnati, OH

In remembrance of COL Arthur Lee Shreve, Jr. who served in three wars...and all whose dedication will never be forgotten: It can be said in the best moments of life, when we are touched by special people, they do not merely leave behind an impression, but a certain spark; an incandescence which will live on in our hearts and minds, and make us feel the...

Heather S.

Hampstead, MD

Remembering my late husband, Enos D. Evans, we miss you so much!!!

Melinda E.

Marblehead, MA

I am so grateful for all the heroes lost while protecting the freedom I am privileged to enjoy!

Cris S.

Mobile, AL

We thank you for your service. We honor you for your sacrifice. We are in awe of you for your bravery. We celebrate you as a hero.

Stacie O.

Breese, IL

What is the significance of Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who have died while serving in the country's armed forces. It is observed on the last Monday of May each year.

Learn more about Memorial Day:

Origins and History of Memorial Day

Civil War Origins: Memorial Day originated in the years following the Civil War, a conflict that claimed more lives than any other conflict in U.S. history and necessitated the establishment of the country's first national cemeteries.

Decoration Day: It was originally known as Decoration Day, from the tradition of decorating graves with flowers, wreaths, and flags. The first widespread observance of Decoration Day was on May 30, 1868, after a proclamation by General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of Union Veterans.

Transition to Memorial Day: Over time, Decoration Day evolved to become Memorial Day, and it expanded to honor all Americans who died in military service, not just those from the Civil War. The name Memorial Day was first used in 1882 and became more common after World War II.

Modern Observance of Memorial Day

National Moment of Remembrance: In 2000, Congress established a National Moment of Remembrance, which asks Americans to pause for one minute at 3:00 PM local time on Memorial Day to reflect on the sacrifices of those who died in service to the nation.

Traditions: Common traditions include visiting cemeteries and memorials, holding family gatherings, and participating in parades. Volunteers often place American flags on graves of military personnel in national cemeteries.

Significance: Memorial Day serves as a time for Americans to reflect on the high cost of freedom and to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the country. It is distinct from Veterans Day, which honors all U.S. military Veterans, not just those who died in service.