By Elizabeth Puls
Copy Editor
Memorial Day is celebrated this year on Monday, May 26. Here are some fun facts that you may not know about this important holiday in American history:
Original name: Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day.
Its Beginnings: Waterloo, New York was named the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in 1966. However, many towns claim to be the birthplace, especially in the South. Memorial Day became an official federal holiday in 1968, with the passing of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act by Congress in June 1968, which went into effect in 1971.
Civil War origins: The custom of decorating graves with flowers and flags began during the Civil War.
National Moment of Remembrance: President Bill Clinton signed the National Moment of Remembrance Act in 2000, which asks Americans to observe a moment of remembrance at 3 PM local time on Memorial Day.
Poppies: People wear poppies on Memorial Day in honor of fallen soldiers. This tradition comes from the poem “In Flanders Fields” by Lieutenant John McCrae.
Fun Activities for the Day
Place flowers on the grave of a fallen soldier: Make a trip to a local veteran’s cemetery and place flowers on the grave of a fallen soldier. The red poppy is the flower worn as a sign of remembrance.
Attend a local parade: Many towns across the United States honor fallen soldiers with a Memorial Day parade. Bring your children or grandchildren and talk about the sacrifices made for the freedoms enjoyed.
Assemble care packages for soldiers: Gather your family together to assemble hygiene products, snacks, comfort items, outdoor gear, and entertainment items. Check with military organizations regarding specific items that are needed and those that are not allowed.
Plan a neighborhood barbecue or block party: This is a great way to meet the neighbors, celebrate the unofficial start to summer, and give thanks for the service men and women who have died while serving their country. Download your favorite patriotic music to play throughout the afternoon.
Watch a patriotic movie: Round out the evening by watching a patriotic movie that celebrates the sacrifices of these brave men and women.