by Melissa Chen, staff reporter
Memorial Day is a day to remember all of those who served and died for the United States of America. It will be celebrated on May 30th this year.
History of Memorial Day
Memorial Day, originally known as Declaration Day, was created after the Civil War and was declared an official holiday in 1971.
The Civil War claimed many lives, leading to the establishment of the country’s first national cemeteries to honor them.
Memorial Day was first celebrated on May 30, 1968, but Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act that changed when this holiday will be celebrated every year. This established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May, which gave government employees a three-day weekend.
“To me, Memorial Day is an important day to honor soldiers who died during their service,” junior Sophie Chianese said.
How is Memorial Day celebrated?
Americans celebrate this holiday by visiting the cemetery or memorials. Some hold family gatherings and participate in parades.
“We go to watch a small parade in Whitestone and have a barbeque after with the whole family,” faculty member Ms. Ginger said.
On Memorial Day, take a moment to honor the people that sacrificed their lives for this country.
