Memorial Day is an American holiday observed on the last Monday of May. It honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. The holiday began as a way to honor soldiers who died in the Civil War, but it now honors all U.S. veterans who have sacrificed their lives.
Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. On Memorial Day, many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service. Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries.
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