Memorial Day Facts
Memorial Day, originally called “Decoration Day,” is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service.
“Decoration Day” was observed for the first time on May 30, 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.
New York, in 1873, was the first state to officially recognize the holiday.
After World War I the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring all Americans who died fighting in any war.
