Islamabad, May 26, 2025: Memorial Day, observed annually on the last Monday of May, serves as a solemn occasion for Americans to honor and remember military personnel who have died in service to the United States.
The holiday’s origins trace back to the aftermath of the Civil War, a conflict that claimed more American lives than any other, demanding the establishment of national cemeteries.
In 1868, General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Union veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance on May 30, known as “Decoration Day.” This day was designated for decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers.
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By 1873, New York had officially recognized Decoration Day as a state holiday, and by the late 19th century, it was observed in many northern states. The Southern states honored their dead on separate days until after World War I, when the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars.
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In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, to be observed on the last Monday in May. In 2000, to re-emphasize the true meaning of the holiday, Congress established the National Moment of Remembrance.
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At 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, Americans are encouraged to pause for a minute of silence to honor those who have died in military service.
Today, Memorial Day is marked by ceremonies at cemeteries and memorials across the country, including the laying of wreaths, parades, and moments of silence. It is a day for Americans to reflect on the sacrifices made by service members to protect the nation’s freedoms.
