Memorial Day is meant to be one of the most solemn American holidays.
First known as "Decoration Day," it began three years after the end of the Civil War, when a former Union general called for a way to remember fallen service members. For decades, Americans marked the holiday on May 30. In 1971, the federal government officially designated the last Monday in May as Memorial Day.
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Here are ways you can honor those who have given their lives for this country.
Take action:
According to the Memorial Day Foundation, there are specific customs for paying respect to fallen service members on Memorial Day:
- Flying the US flag at half-staff until noon
- Observing a moment of silence at 3 p.m. local time
- Placing flags or flowers on veterans' graves
How to help:
Here are some charities aiding families of service members who died serving their country:
- The Comfort Crew for Military Kids: Provides resources to help military kids and their families connect and build resiliency.
- Tragedy Assistance Program: Offers a variety of programs to those grieving the death of a loved one serving in our Armed Forces.
- The National Military Family Association: Acts as a "voice" for military families and is the "go to" source for government officials seeking to understand the issues facing spouses and children of those serving in the armed forces.
