Memorial Day Essay: Memorial Day is celebrated to remember the people and soldiers who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day is observed last Monday of May. It was originally known as Decoration Day because on that day citizens pay tributes to the soldiers by decorating their graves with flowers. In 1971, Decoration Day was officially declared Memorial Day. The Civil War, which came to an end in 1865, took more lives than any conflict in the history of the U S. Many Americans visit memorials, held social gatherings, and participate in various activities to mark Memorial Day. After World War I, the Memorial Day programs were held to honor all veterans who died in any American war. After that, it was officially decided to observe Memorial Day on the last Monday in May.
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Long Essay on Memorial Day
History of Memorial Day
The tradition of the Memorial Day celebration began on May 30, 1868, as an initiative by Major General John A. Logan. The event was held with a large gathering of people decorating the graves of thousands of military personnel with flowers. After speeches by officials, children from the orphanage made their way through the cemetery, singing prayers. New York was the first state to declare Memorial Day as an official holiday followed by other states. However, the southern province used to observe it separately until the completion of World War-I after which the Memorial Day celebration included all the Americans who sacrificed their lives in any war. Some of the experts say that Decoration Day was initially planned for May because the states would observe flowers blooming in this season. But others believe the date was ideal because it didn’t coincide with the anniversary of any battles.
How It Is Observed?
This day was started as an event to commemorate and pay tribute to the soldiers who had died during the American Civil War. After World War I, all men and women who died in any war or military action in the U.S. were also included. As a part of the celebration on this day, every year, military personnel and members of organizations are involved in activities across several cities and towns. One of the largest parades takes place in Chicago, New York, and Washington, D.C. Traditionally, this day was also seen as the beginning of the summer season so cultural programs also took place this weekend. There are several events families enjoy participating in every year on this occasion, but there are also a few meaningful traditional ways to observe Memorial Day.
People wear poppies on their dress as a sign of respect to America’s war dead in a Memorial Day tradition. The graves of war heroes in the veteran cemetery are well maintained and decorated by their family members. Official guidelines say the flag in the administrative buildings should be displayed at half-staff only until mid-day. In 2000, President Bill Clinton implemented a law as ‘The National Moment of Remembrance Act’ on this occasion intending to remember the sacrifices of soldiers and war heroes. The law encourages all Americans to voluntarily stop wherever they are at 3 PM local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to honor those who have died in service to the nation.
Short Essay on Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a holiday in the United States in which people honor and remember the soldiers and military of the United States Armed Forces who fought for the country and sacrificed their lives in war. Memorial Day is a day when people spend time reflecting and remembering those who lost their lives in service of the country. It is a day of remembrance and honor for the men and women who have died for the country.
The Importance of Memorial Day
Although we are discussing Memorial Day in the context of the United States, it is one such day in general for any nation to express a sense of gratitude and admiration towards those who made the ultimate sacrifice in wars. It is a great time to start talking about it with your family and children and create awareness among the young generation about the importance of this day. Memorial Day means more than just honoring those who died for the country by decorating the graves or taking part in parades. This should be a day to remind us that we should appreciate the contribution of these noble people every single day in our lives. We should remember that for every moment we spend in peace, there is somebody out there fighting and protecting our country against enemies so that we can lead normal lives. We must carry on their legacy by honoring our freedom and performing our part of duty for the progress of our country.
The Conclusion
Every sensible citizen has to realize the true meaning of Memorial Day without allowing it to close in the celebration, enjoyment, and weekend extravaganza. It’s the day to take the pledge in honor of those people, who courageously sacrificed their lives. It’s the time to remember and respect our heroes and count our blessings as we stand proud and enjoy freedom.
FAQ’s on Memorial Day Essay
Question 1.
When is Memorial Day celebrated in the United States?
Answer:
Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday of May.
Question 2.
When was the first time Memorial Day was observed?
Answer:
Memorial Day was observed for the first time on May 31, 1860.
Question 3.
What is the significance of ‘The National Moment of Remembrance Act’ in the United States?
Answer:
In 2000, ‘The National Moment of Remembrance Act’ was introduced by President Bill Clinton to remember the sacrifices of soldiers and war heroes on Memorial Day. The law encourages all Americans to voluntarily stop for a minute of silence wherever they are at 3 PM local time on Memorial Day to honor those who have died in service to the nation.
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