(This story was inspired by a reader’s suggestion)
By Valerie Milano
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 5/23/25 – As the last Monday in May approaches, Americans across the country begin firing up grills, packing coolers, and planning beach getaways. Retail sales blast out “Memorial Day Deals!” and the three-day weekend is often seen as the unofficial start of summer. But amidst the barbecues and family outings, it’s easy to forget the true purpose of Memorial Day—a day of solemn remembrance for those who paid the ultimate price in service to the United States.
The roots of Memorial Day date back to the aftermath of the Civil War, America’s bloodiest conflict, which claimed over 600,000 lives. Communities across the country—especially women’s groups, began holding springtime tributes to the fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and reciting prayers. One of the earliest recorded events was in 1866 in Waterloo, New York, which was later recognized by Congress as the official birthplace of Memorial Day.
Originally called Decoration Day, the occasion was formalized by Union General John A. Logan in 1868 to honor soldiers lost in the Civil War. Over time, as the United States fought in more wars, the day evolved to commemorate all American military personnel who died in service to their country.
It wasn’t until 1971 that Memorial Day was declared a federal holiday, observed on the last Monday of May. While the long weekend was intended to give Americans a chance to reflect and participate in acts of remembrance, it slowly began to morph into something else entirely.
Today, the meaning of Memorial Day often gets lost in a haze of cookouts, pool parties, and mattress sales. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with enjoying a day off, what gets overlooked is why we have the day off in the first place.
Memorial Day is not Veterans Day (which honors all who have served), nor is it simply a patriotic holiday. It is a day of mourning, a national moment to honor and remember those who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Every flag at half-staff, every wreath placed on a grave, and every moment of silence is a gesture of gratitude owed to those who never came home.
It’s not too late to reconnect with the heart of Memorial Day. Here are a few meaningful ways to observe the day with intention:
- Attend a Memorial Day ceremony at a local cemetery or veterans’ monument.
- Visit a national cemetery or war memorial to pay respects.
- Observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m. local time, pausing for one minute to reflect on the sacrifices of the fallen.
- Volunteer with veterans’ organizations or community service groups supporting military families.
- Educate children and young adults about the purpose of the holiday, passing on its significance to future generations.
Even a small act—like placing a flag on a grave or taking a quiet moment during your day—can help realign the meaning of Memorial Day in a culture that’s forgotten why it exists.
Memorial Day isn’t about celebration. It’s about sacrifice—and those who made it. The freedoms we enjoy, including the freedom to gather, relax, and spend time with loved ones, were made possible by the men and women who laid down their lives in service to a nation they believed in.
So yes, enjoy your time with family. Fire up the grill. Appreciate a well-earned rest. But do so with awareness, gratitude, and reverence. Let Memorial Day be a reminder—not just a break.
Let us remember the fallen—not just with words, but with actions worthy of their sacrifice.
