Written by: Dr. Don Wood, PhD, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
The true origin of Memorial Day. Three years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans — the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) — established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared it should be May 30.
Here are some interesting facts about Memorial Day:
Memorial Day began as Decoration Day.
Decoration Day only recognized fallen soldiers of the Civil War until World War I.
Memorial Day was not an official holiday until 1968.
Memorial Day is one of the few days flags are ordered to fly at half-staff then full-staff.
Why do we celebrate Memorial Day?
Of the two official United States holidays recognizing the commitment of members of America's military services, Memorial Day honors those who lost their lives while defending their country. Memorial Day is only for fallen soldiers, and is dedicated only to those who died in battle or after injuries sustained in battle, rather than active-duty soldiers or living veterans.
The History of Memorial Day
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, traces its roots back to the aftermath of the Civil War. The Civil War was the deadliest conflict in American history, resulting in the deaths of over 600,000 soldiers.
The first Decoration Day was organized by the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of Union veterans, as a way to honor the fallen soldiers by decorating their graves with flowers. This tradition spread throughout the country, and by the late 19th century, states began to officially recognize the holiday.
The name "Memorial Day" gradually replaced "Decoration Day" in the early 20th century, and the holiday expanded to honor the fallen soldiers of all American conflicts, not just the Civil War.
In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May and created a three-day weekend for federal employees. This change went into effect in 1971 and has been observed ever since.
Memorial Day is now a time to remember and honor all those who have died serving in the United States military. It is also a day to recognize the sacrifices made by their families and loved ones. In addition to decorating graves, Memorial Day is marked by ceremonies, parades, and other events to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers.
Memorial Day: Only for Fallen Soldiers
As mentioned earlier, Memorial Day is dedicated solely to those who have died in battle or after injuries sustained in battle. This distinguishes it from Veterans Day, which honors all veterans, both living and deceased. While it is important to recognize and thank all military members for their service, Memorial Day is a time to focus on those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
The tradition of decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers, flags, and other tributes is a powerful way to show respect and gratitude. Many people also visit war memorials and participate in ceremonies to honor the fallen. By focusing on the sacrifices made by these brave individuals and their families, we pay tribute to their courage and selflessness and ensure that their memories live on.
Memorial Day Traditions and Celebrations
Despite its solemn nature, Memorial Day is marked by various traditions and events across the United States. Some of these include:
Parades: Many cities and towns host Memorial Day parades to honor fallen soldiers. These parades often feature marching bands, veterans' organizations, and military personnel. The National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C., is one of the largest and most well-known parades in the country.
Ceremonies: Memorial Day ceremonies are held at cemeteries, war memorials, and other public spaces to pay tribute to the fallen. These ceremonies may include speeches, the playing of "Taps," and the laying of wreaths to honor the deceased.
Flags at half-staff: On Memorial Day, the United States flag is flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon to honor those who have died while serving in the military. At noon, the flag is raised to full staff for the remainder of the day, symbolizing the nation's resolve to continue fighting for freedom and justice.
Moment of remembrance: At 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, a national moment of remembrance takes place. During this time, Americans are encouraged to pause for one minute to remember and honor those who have died while serving.
Volunteer efforts: Many people choose to volunteer at veterans' cemeteries, cleaning and decorating gravesites or participating in other activities to honor the fallen on Memorial Day.
5 Things Not to Do on Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a solemn occasion, and it is important to remember that it is a day of remembrance and not a celebration. Here are five things to avoid doing on Memorial Day:
Don't wish anyone a "Happy Memorial Day." While it is common to hear people use this phrase, it is important to remember that Memorial Day is a time to honor those who have died while serving in the military. Instead, consider saying "Thank you for your service" or "We remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice."
Don't thank the current troops. While it is always appropriate to thank active-duty military members and veterans for their service, Memorial Day is specifically designated to honor those who have died while serving. Instead, focus on paying tribute to the fallen soldiers and their families.
Don't disregard its importance. Memorial Day is an integral part of American history and a time to honor the sacrifices made by countless men and women in the military. Take the time to learn about the history, traditions, and meaning of the day.
Don't forget it exists. Memorial Day is more than just a three-day weekend and the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn day of remembrance and an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Don't confuse it with Veterans Day. While both holidays honor those who have served in the military, Memorial Day is specifically for honoring and remembering those who have died while serving, whereas Veterans Day recognizes all veterans, both living and deceased.
Honoring Veterans Through Community Involvement
While Memorial Day focuses on honoring those who have died while serving, it is essential to also recognize and support living veterans and active-duty military members. There are numerous ways to get involved in your community to show support for veterans and their families.
One option is to volunteer with local veterans' organizations or military support groups. These organizations often provide assistance to veterans in need, organize events to honor and support military members and their families, and advocate for veterans' rights and benefits.
Another way to support veterans is by attending and participating in local events and ceremonies that honor their service. These events can range from Veterans Day parades and ceremonies to fundraisers and community service projects that benefit veterans and their families.
Finally, consider supporting veteran-owned businesses or hiring veterans in your workplace. By supporting veterans economically, you can help them transition to civilian life and contribute to their overall well-being.
Supporting Veterans Beyond Veterans Day
While Veterans Day is a designated time to honor and thank all those who have served in the United States military, it is essential to support veterans throughout the year. This can be done in several ways, from volunteering with veterans' organizations to advocating for veterans' rights and benefits. By providing ongoing support to veterans and their families, we can show our gratitude for their service and sacrifices.
Some ways to support veterans throughout the year include donating to veterans' charities, mentoring or providing job training to veterans, and advocating for policies that benefit veterans and their families. At Inspired Performance Institute, we provide Veterans discounts on all our programs, as a sign of appreciation, respect and recognition.
By taking these actions, we can create a more just and supportive society for those who have served our country.
Public Figures and Their Support for Veterans
Many public figures have shown their support for veterans and their families through various initiatives and programs. These individuals have used their platforms to raise awareness about the sacrifices made by veterans and to advocate for their rights and benefits.
Other public figures who have shown support for veterans include actor Gary Sinise, who founded the Gary Sinise Foundation to support veterans and first responders, and musician Jon Bon Jovi, who co-founded the JBJ Soul Foundation to support veterans and their families.
Through their support and advocacy, these public figures have helped to raise awareness about the sacrifices made by veterans and to ensure that they receive the support and resources they need to thrive.
Veterans' Contributions to American Society
Veterans have made significant contributions to American society, both during their time in the military and after. They have fought to protect our freedoms, defend our nation, and promote democracy around the world. In addition to their military service, many veterans continue to serve their communities and country through public service, volunteer work, and advocacy.
Some veterans have gone on to become influential public figures, including politicians, activists, and business leaders. These individuals have used their experiences and leadership skills to make positive changes in their communities and beyond. They have served as role models and inspiration for future generations of Americans.
Veterans have also made significant contributions to science, technology, and the arts. Many veterans have pursued careers in fields such as medicine, engineering, and computer science, helping to drive innovation and progress in these areas. Others have become renowned writers, musicians, and artists, using their experiences to create powerful works of art that reflect the human experience.
Overall, veterans have played a crucial role in shaping American society and culture. Their contributions and sacrifices have helped to protect our freedoms and way of life and have inspired countless individuals to serve their country and communities in meaningful ways.
Veterans' Impact on Future Generations
As we reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans, it is important to remember that their impact extends beyond their own generation. Veterans have helped to shape the course of American history, influencing everything from our political system to our values and beliefs.
The sacrifices made by veterans have also inspired future generations of Americans to serve their country and communities. By witnessing the courage and selflessness of those who have served, young people are inspired to pursue careers in public service, the military, and other fields that allow them to make a positive impact on the world.
Additionally, veterans have played a crucial role in shaping the values and beliefs of future generations. Through their service and sacrifice, they have demonstrated the importance of courage, honor, and selflessness, values that continue to be upheld by Americans today.
As we honor veterans on Memorial Day and throughout the year, we must also recognize the lasting impact they have had on our society and the important role they will continue to play in shaping our nation's future.
The Enduring Importance of Memorial Day
As we reflect on the history of Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by veterans, it is clear that this holiday holds enduring importance for our nation. Memorial Day serves as a reminder of the courage, selflessness, and sacrifice of those who have served in the United States military, and it provides an opportunity for us to honor and remember their contributions.
While Memorial Day is a time to focus on those who have died while serving, it is also important to support and advocate for living veterans and their families throughout the year. By volunteering, donating, and advocating for veterans' rights and benefits, we can show our gratitude for their service and sacrifice.
As we look to the future, we must continue to honor and remember the sacrifices made by veterans and to support those who have served our country. By doing so, we can ensure that their legacy lives on and that future generations of Americans are inspired to serve their country and communities in meaningful ways.
Dr. Don Wood, PhD, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Don Wood, Ph.D., author, speaker, Founder & CEO of the Inspired Performance Institute and creator of the patented TIPP method. TIPP is a cutting-edge method inspired and developed through the newest developments in neuroscience and designed to clear away the effects of disturbing or traumatic events, repurpose old patterns, and set the individual’s mind up for peak performance. In essence, it “REBOOTs” the brain’s stuck thought pattern, making it possible to enhance alpha oscillations with a noninvasive and effective shift in brain wave activity. Author of two top-selling books, Emotional Concussions and You Must Be Out of your Mind.
