Memorial Day was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, but after World War I, Memorial Day became an occasion for honoring those who died in all of America’s wars.
The day was eventually more widely established as a national holiday throughout the United States, but at the state level. It was not until the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was passed in 1971 that Memorial Day was cemented as a federal holiday on the last Monday of May.
With our VA colleagues, we will begin the day by flying our flags at half-staff. In keeping with tradition and etiquette, those carrying our colors will raise the flag to the top of the flagpole (or “staff”), and then lower it solemnly to the halfway point as a salute to the brave people who served and sacrificed all in service.
Our greatest acknowledgement will come at 3:00 p.m., when we observe the National Moment of Remembrance. At this time, we will pause in our daily activities and reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have lost their lives fighting for the United States.
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Semper Fi, God bless America..