US to observe Memorial Day on May 29: Key details about this Federal Holiday

Although Memorial Day is often linked with the beginning of summer, its true purpose as a federal holiday lies in paying tribute and remembering American veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May every year since 1971.

Memorial Day, which falls this year on May 29, intends to honor the men and women who passed away while serving in the US military.

Memorial Day was originally started as Decoration Day and was created about three years after the Civil War to honor the soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict. The tradition began with the Grand Army of the Republic, a group of Union Veterans, decorating the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers.


This practice started in various communities around the country as early as 1866. But, became a federal holiday in 1971.

Milwaukee's Memorial Day Celebrations

Milwaukee takes pride in honoring Memorial Day with a range of events and tributes throughout the holiday weekend. Here are some notable activities:

Memorial Day at Forest Home Cemetery: Join the memorial service at the Ferry & Clas chapel, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony in the Garden of Honor, which is dedicated to veterans.

Field of Flags: Witness a touching display at the War Memorial Center, where volunteers will place 15,015 flags to symbolize Wisconsinites who lost their lives in action. The flags will be set up between May 22 and May 26.

Memorial Day ceremony at Wood National Cemetery: Pay your respects at Wood National Cemetery during the Memorial Day ceremony, held at 9 am on May 29. Note that seating is limited for this outdoor event.

FAQs

1. Q1. When is Memorial Day 2023?
   A1. May 29, 2023
2. Q2. When did Memorial Day start as a yearly observation?
   A2. In the year 1971 when it became a federal holiday.