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Memorial Day Worksheets

What is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is a special holiday in the United States that takes place on the last Monday in May. It’s a day when we remember and honor the brave men and women who have died while serving in the military.

Memorial Day is an important day because it gives us an opportunity to show our gratitude and respect for those who have sacrificed their lives to protect our country and keep us safe. It’s a time to reflect on their bravery and remember their contributions.

One of the ways we observe Memorial Day is by visiting cemeteries and memorials. People go to these places to place flowers and flags on the graves of fallen soldiers. It’s a way to show our appreciation and let their families know that we remember and honor their loved ones.

Many communities also hold special ceremonies and parades on Memorial Day. These events bring people together to remember the fallen soldiers and pay tribute to their memory. People often wear red poppy flowers, which have become a symbol of remembrance for those who have served in the military.

On Memorial Day, we also show our respect by flying the American flag at half-staff until noon. This is a sign of mourning and remembrance. After noon, the flag is raised to its full height, symbolizing that we will not forget the sacrifices made by our military heroes.

While Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor the fallen soldiers, it’s also a day to appreciate the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy because of their sacrifices. It’s a time to spend with family and friends, to have picnics, and to enjoy outdoor activities. Many people also participate in events like races or community gatherings to celebrate and remember.

Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of the summer season in the United States. People often go on vacations, have barbecues, and enjoy outdoor fun. But it’s important to remember that the true meaning of Memorial Day is not just about having a day off or enjoying the start of summer. It’s about remembering and honoring the brave men and women who have given their lives for our country.

So, on Memorial Day, take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by our military heroes. Thank them silently or say a few words of gratitude. Remember that Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and the values we hold dear.

Memorial Day Trivia

  • The holiday was originally known as Decoration Day and was established after the American Civil War to honor Union soldiers who died in battle.
  • The first widely recognized Memorial Day took place on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.
  • Memorial Day became an official federal holiday in 1971.
  • The red poppy flower is often worn on Memorial Day as a symbol of remembrance, inspired by the famous war poem “In Flanders Fields.”
  • The National Moment of Remembrance is observed at 3:00 PM local time on Memorial Day. It’s a moment for all Americans to pause and reflect on the sacrifices of fallen soldiers.
  • In 2000, Congress established the National Moment of Remembrance as an official part of Memorial Day.
    Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day to place flowers, flags, and other tributes on the graves of fallen soldiers.
  • The American flag is traditionally flown at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day, after which it is raised to full-staff.
  • The “Taps” bugle call is often played at Memorial Day ceremonies and is a musical tribute to fallen soldiers.
  • Waterloo, New York, is officially recognized as the birthplace of Memorial Day, as it held the first community-wide observance in 1866.
  • Memorial Day is not to be confused with Veterans Day, which is celebrated in November and honors all veterans who have served in the military.
  • The National Memorial Day Concert takes place on the West Lawn of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., each year.
  • Since 1950, the American flag has been placed on every grave at Arlington National Cemetery on Memorial Day.
    In 2004, the “National Moment of Remembrance Act” was signed into law, encouraging Americans to pause for a moment of silence on Memorial Day.
  • The longest-running Memorial Day parade is held in Ironton, Ohio, which has been celebrated annually since 1868.
  • In 2008, President George W. Bush issued a proclamation urging all Americans to observe the National Moment of Remembrance on Memorial Day.