What is Memorial Day?

Worksheet Description
The worksheet presented is a didactic tool designed to teach children about the significance of Memorial Day. The top portion provides a brief history of Memorial Day, informing readers that it is a solemn holiday in the United States, commemorated on the last Monday in May, to remember and honor the servicemen and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military. The text delves into the origins of the holiday, which dates back to the post-American Civil War era and mentions the traditional customs of decorating graves of soldiers with flowers, an act that laid the groundwork for the modern Memorial Day observance.
The second part of the worksheet discusses the evolution of Memorial Day, noting that it was initially meant to honor those who died in the Civil War, but later expanded to include all American soldiers who have died in any war. It also poses reflective questions about how the day is celebrated today, with mentions of parades, visiting cemeteries and memorials, and the common practice of flying the American flag at half-staff. The educational text concludes by reminding readers that while Memorial Day may mark the unofficial start of summer with picnics and family gatherings, its core purpose is to remember and appreciate the ultimate sacrifices made by military personnel. This sheet serves as a valuable educational resource, encouraging respect and understanding for the true meaning behind this national holiday.