Knowledge Center — history of memorial day

Memorial Day is an American holiday observed on the last Monday of May each year. It is a day to honor and remember the brave men and women who have died while serving in the United States military. The origins of Memorial Day can be traced back to the years following the American Civil War, which lasted from 1861 to 1865. During the war, soldiers on both sides lost their lives in large numbers, and their graves were often left unmarked and forgotten. In an effort to honor these fallen soldiers, communities across the country began holding annual Decoration Day...