What is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day traces its origin to the end of the Civil War. In 1866, the year following the conclusion of that war, many towns and villages throughout the United States, north and south, had community efforts to honor the fallen of both sides by decorating the Graves with Flags and Flowers. With these efforts spreading to other towns and villages in the following years, and effort was made to coordinate these efforts at a national level. General John A. Logan, then commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, a predecessor to the American Legion, issued General Order No. 11 which stated:
“The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country and during the late rebellion. In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.”
Following World War I, Memorial Day, as the day was becoming more popularly known, was expanded to include those who died in any war or military action. The alternative name of “Memorial Day” was first used in 1882, but did not become more common until after World War I, and was not declared the official name by Federal Law until 1967.
