Where It All Began
Initially, Memorial Day was not a national holiday but it evolved gradually from a period of grief and remembrance. In the aftermath of the Civil War (1861-1865), this tradition was started because of the devastation of the war throughout the country. Fathers, brothers and sons were lost to families.
They visited the soldiers' graves and cried in their anguish, missing out on the moments they should have been spending with their families. These grave visits became known as Decoration Day. America became involved in more wars and more lives were lost in the service of the nation, and this day became more meaningful. Decoration Day was changed to Memorial Day after World War I. It was named a national holiday in 1971 by the United States Congress in honor of the soldiers who lost their lives serving their country.
People who gave everything to the Nation
Each name on a marker was a real, flesh and blood person that had dreams, a family, and a future that they sacrificed. Some were only young and had a whole life in front of them and yet they answered the call of duty without hesitation. Some were husbands, and some were fathers of young children, who would not see them grow up.
They were from various backgrounds and different beliefs, but they all made the same decision. Country first. They didn't serve for one single moment. They gave everything for the nation.
On Memorial Day, the nation remembers their courage, and says, "Thank you, we remember. We are grateful. We do not forget.
How America Honors Memorial Day with Flags
The American flag has always been part of the Memorial Day celebration. Families and communities observe the day with various patriotic flag ceremonies to honor the memory of brave people who sacrificed their lives while serving in the armed forces. You can honor this day in many ways
Lowering the flag to half-staff from sunrise till noon is a significant Memorial Day ceremony that honors those military personnel who have lost their lives protecting the country. The raising of the flag to its full staff at noon marks a moment of pride and strength for the nation.
Putting American Flags on Soldiers' Graves
During this day, families pay tribute to their deceased loved ones through small flags besides their graves in many cemeteries across country. This tradition started post-American Civil War and is considered the most honorable way to remember Memorial Day.
Displaying American flags on the front of the house
Family and community members raise the American flag at their front porch and garden as well as on the places where memorial ceremonies are held, to show their gratitude on this day.
American Flags in Memorial Day Parades
Most of the parades organized on Memorial Day involve participation by veterans, families of soldiers, marching bands, and civilians. They all carry American flags which is the most honorable symbol on this day.
Celebrate With Gratitude
Memorial Day doesn't want you to stop celebrating. American’s have always been able to experience both pain and celebration at the same time, a balance that is a good way of showing honor.
But before the barbecues and gatherings, take a moment to remember those who will never get to enjoy another summer with their families. They gave up their future so that yours might be! That deserves more than a passing thought.
The easiest and most meaningful thing to do to celebrate this day is to fly the American flag. A flag isn't a decoration, whether it's at your front porch or your garden, or your neighborhood. It is a statement. It reminds the world that you remember, that you are thankful and that you don't forget.
Let your flag speak for you this Memorial Day. Look at our selection and discover the one that flies in memory of those who gave everything! Shop NOW!
Not all freedom was free, The money was raised by real people, real families, who gave so much. What can we do, but raise a flag in their name.
The Flag That Remembers: Honoring Memorial Day