At a recent Book Swap event, I discovered just how little I know about Memorial Day. During a game, we were asked several questions to test our knowledge of the holiday. I failed in most respects.
I knew Memorial Day was instigated as a day to honor those who had died in service to American’s freedom. What I didn’t know was the specifics behind it. A few of these lesser-known facts might surprise you, others just make sense if you think them through.
MEMORIAL DAY FORGOTTEN FACTS
- Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day.
- Memorial Day was first observed in 1868 to honor the more than 600,000 lives lost during the American Civil War. After WW I it was meant to honor all fallen soldiers.
- Memorial Day didn’t become an official national holiday until 1968 (one hundred years after it was first observed).
- The holiday was observed on May 30 until 1970 when it was moved to the last Monday in May. (to ensure a 3-day weekend, no doubt)
- All Americans are encouraged to observe a moment of silence at 3 pm to honor the brave men and women who lost their lives.
- May was chosen for the holiday because that’s when many flowers are in bloom.
Did you know all that? I found these lesser-known tidbits of information so interesting and fun. I’m sure there are many other historical aspects to not only Memorial Day but other holidays as well which have been forgotten over time.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into one of our nation’s holidays. It’s more than a day off work or a time to gather with family or friends. So many people have lost their lives for the sake of freedom. If someone close to you or a family member from long ago was among those who lost their lives, we are indebted for their sacrifice. Feel free to share their story.
THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE
Let’s not forget the One who paid the ultimate price for us all—Jesus. His sacrifice on the cross paved our way to the Father and gave us the hope of eternal life. Praise God for His mercies and grace.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
(John 3:16-17)
INSPIRING READS
Stories of faith and resilience on the Midwest prairie & the Civil War Era
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Amen. We should always remember Jesus Christ first no matter what day it is. I did remember as a girl it being called Decoration Day. My parents always visited my grandparents Graves to place beautiful flowers there.
Yes. For sure. Thanks for sharing, Linda.