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After World War I, as the day came to be observed inhonour of those who had died in all U.S. wars, its name changed from Decoration Day to Memorial Day. Since 1971 Memorial Day has been observed on the last Monday in May. A number of Southern states also observe a separate day to honour the Confederate dead.
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Why is it called Decoration Day and Memorial Day?
As the meaning of Decoration Day evolved, so did the name. By the late 19th century, many Americans were using the term Memorial Day. In May 1918, as thousands of American troops were fighting in France during World War I, the U.S. Army held Memorial Day ceremonies in the temporary cemeteries throughout the country.
Why do we celebrate Decoration Day?
To honor the deceased, soldiers would decorate graves of their fallen comrades with flowers, flags and wreaths. Hence Decoration Day. Although Memorial Day became its official title in the 1880s, the holiday wouldn鈥檛 legally become Memorial Day until 1967.
What is the true history of Memorial Day?
History of Memorial Day. Memorial Day, as Decoration Day gradually came to be known, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars.
Why is Memorial Day on the 28 of May?
Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2018 occurs on Monday, May 28. … For decades, Memorial Day continued to be observed on May 30, the date Logan had selected for the first Decoration Day.