Memorial Day is a time to reflect on our country's history and to honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Keep reading for a quick history of Memorial Day and how you can also honor the day.
It initially started as a Decoration Day after the Civil War, when community members decorated the bare graves of fallen soldiers with wreaths and flowers. The first Decoration Day had over 5,000 participants that helped decorate the graves of more than 20,000 Civil War soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. By the late 19th century, this tradition transformed into what is now recognized as Memorial Day as observers honored the fallen from all of America's wars.
These days, the holiday allows the families of soldiers who have fallen in action to grieve and recollect their immense sacrifice. Different cities and states have a variety of ways to commemorate, including parades, marathons, religious events, and more.
Some Southern California Memorial Day Events
LA Fleet Week: The event holds from the 26th to the 29th of May. There will be military band performances and ship tours.
Field of Honor: This Memorial Day event will be hosted from the 23rd to the 29th of May. The field will be decorated with miniature American flags.
The Annual Memorial Weekend Carnival: This event at Santa Anita Park is scheduled for Saturday, May 27th, through Monday, May 29th.
Ultimately, Memorial Day is not only a time to enjoy a well-earned day off. While having time away from work is great, remember to appreciate the commitment exemplified by military service members. By cherishing their memory, we keep their legacy alive and guarantee that their sacrifices were not in vain.