Memorial Day

Memorial Day (previously but now seldom called Decoration Day) is a day for honoring and mourning the military personnel that died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The holiday is now observed on the last Monday of May, having been observed on May 30 from 1868 to 1970.

Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day to honor and mourn those who had died in military service. Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave.

Two other days celebrate those who have served or are serving in the U.S. military: Veterans Day which honors those who have served in the United States Armed Services and Armed Forces Day, an unofficial U.S. holiday (earlier in May) for honoring those currently serving in the armed forces.