As Memorial Day rolls around the corner, it’s important we understand the history of this holiday. 

Memorial Day originated years after the civil war ended. By 1971 it was declared a federal holiday. It’s a day we remember our fallen soldiers and veterans. 

Many Americans honor this day by attending ceremonies and visiting grave sites to honor the lives of those who fought for our country. Citizens leave flowers and bottles of alcohol on the grave sights as gifts to those who served and lost their lives during the war. 

Each year on memorial Day there is a moment of remembrance to remember those who served. Americans gather in groups and bow their heads, most of these citizens praying for their lost loved ones. 

A Woodbridge Highschool student says “Before the pandemic my family would have cookouts every memorial day and we would visit grave sites to deliver flowers but since COVID we haven’t celebrated. I think I will this year though to show respect to those who served.” Another student says “I don’t celebrate much, I don’t visit grave sites or pray but I do acknowledge and honor those who lost their lives for our country.”

Memorial day is May 30th, while everyone has the day off it’s important to remember why we have the school and work day off. 

“Our nation owes a debt to it’s fallen heroes that we can never fully repay” – Barack Obama