There is quite a bit of "talk" on social media and the internet on how we should observe Memorial Day.
- Should we have BBQs and grill?
- Should we visit the graves of fallen soldiers?
- Is it appropriate to greet each other with the word "happy" before "Memorial Day"?
- Should we include those service-members currently alive in observance?
By going with facts, the day was set aside to remember those who died during the Civil War. New York was the first state to recognize it in 1973. All the northern states finally recognized the holiday by 1890 (the South refusing until after World War 1. With the Congressional passage of the "National Holiday Act of 1971", almost every state observes the holiday on the last Monday in May.
However, many seem to get Memorial Day confused with Veteran's Day. The first being set aside to remember those who died while serving our country, and the latter for celebrating the service of all US veterans.
So how do we observe the day?
Traditionally, the flag is supposed to be lowered during the first part of the day, and then at noon, raised to the top for the remainder. Also, on December 2000, the National Moment of Remembrance was passed, asking all Americans to observe in their own way, a moment of remembrance and respect by listening to "Taps" at 3pm.
There is nothing wrong with visiting the graves of a loved one, showing respect to those currently in the service, or pulling out the grill for some steaks and burgers. But either way, none should be expected or frowned upon.
Just doing some history research!
~Matt
