What Is the Purpose of Memorial Day?

Have you ever wondered why Memorial Day is observed as a national holiday? Memorial Day is held annually on the final Monday in May to memorialize every man and woman who has laid down their lives while serving in the United States military.

The Civil War decimated the United States, and communities began hosting springtime tributes to memorialize the numerous troops who died in the fight immediately after it ended.

The United States government designated Waterloo, New York, as the recognized birthplace of Memorial Day in 1966, even though similar commemorations likely began simultaneously in several other localities.

General John A. Logan, the leader of a group of Northern Civil War veterans, led the charge for a national day of memorial. On May 30, 1868, nearly 5,000 individuals adorned the graves of over 20,000 soldiers buried at Arlington National Cemetery for the very first Decoration Day.

The event became known as Memorial Day as time progressed and more wars happened. It has also grown beyond its Civil War origins to include all men and women who have died while serving in the country's militia.