The Meaning of Memorial Day

Image courtesy of Robin Jonathan Deutsch via Unsplash

A History of Sacrifice, and a Day of Reflection

When we think of Memorial Day, our first thought may be enjoying time in the backyard with a BBQ, friends and family. With flash sales and long weekend vacays, often times the true meaning of this national holiday can get lost in the shuffle. At Timoti’s, we recognize the importance of honoring those who have fought and died for our country, and recognize the men and women who gave their lives for our rights and freedoms.

Earliest Recognition

What is believed to be the earliest commemoration of Memorial Day takes place during the American Civil War. During this time, people often decorated the tombs of fallen soldiers with flowers. However, Memorial Day at the time was called Decoration Day. While there is no exact date to which it was first celebrated, this day eventually was recognized May 5th, 1968 by General John A. Logan. Many cities across the U.S. all celebrated differently, but it was first observed at Arlington National Cemetery. 

Current Recognition

Overtime, Decoration Day started to become known as Memorial Day. Post World War I, the holiday evolved into commemorating the men and women who died in all the wars. While it continued to be observed on May 30th, in 1968 Congress created the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, established on the last Monday in May. In 1971, Memorial Day was officially declared a federal holiday.

How to Celebrate

Originally, people showed their day of remembrance by wearing a red poppy pinned to their shirt. However there are many ways to observe Memorial Day, such as placing flags and flowers on the graves of fallen soldiers – or, if you own an American flag with a flagpole, it is commonplace to hoist it half way up the pole until noon.

Timoti’s honors the men and women that fought for our country. We are open at all locations on Memorial Day, and hope everyone has a safe weekend, remembering the true meaning behind this day of reflection.