Eager to learn the difference between memorial day vs veterans day? Or perhaps why do we celebrate veterans day? Let’s delve in! Memorial Day is for our fallen military members. Sacrifices made for liberty. People gather celebrating freedom, yet remember its price. Simple cookouts and solemn ceremonies remind us that Freedom comes at a significant cost. Not just a summer opener or long weekend free day. Remembering courage lives lost protecting our nation’s way.
As the family gathers, grills smoke, and joy abounds, and we pause. Reflect on meaning amidst celebration’s sounds. Honor is given where deserved, in silent tribute to the brave. Guarding ideals we cherish, a debt we can never fully repay.
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The History of Memorial Day
After the Civil War ended, towns started memorial events to honor soldiers who died fighting. These origins link back to 1865 when American towns started having ceremonies and festivities. One early gathering happened in Charleston, South Carolina, that same year. People living nearby and freed slaves gathered to respect Union troops who passed away in a Confederate prison camp as POWs.
The American Civil War’s aftermath prompted Memorial Day’s beginnings. Towns organized these memorial services and other celebrations in 1865 when that conflict ended. These honored troops were killed in battle.
After the Civil War, many towns began memorial services to honor soldiers who died. People often called these “Decoration Days.” Decorations like flowers, wreaths, and flags covered graves. Different regions chose various dates for these memorials.
The term “Memorial Day” was coined later in the 1800s. May 30th emerged as the typical Memorial Day celebration date. It had no ties to specific battles, allowing blooming flowers nationwide. That’s likely why the 30th was chosen.
Memorial Day honors military people who died in wars. The national holiday started in 1971 and falls on the final Monday in May. This gives Americans a three-day weekend to recall soldiers’ sacrifices while securing freedoms.
Memorial Day brings events and parades across the country. Many visit military cemeteries and monuments. It reminds of valor, loyalty, and heroism from defenders of cherished liberties and ideals. Their continued protection sustains such norms even today.
Memorial Day vs Veterans Day
Memorial Day and Veterans Day honor those who have served in the U.S. military services.
Memorial Day happens on the last Monday in May. It honors military people who passed away defending their country, especially those who died in combat or war wounds. Memorial Day remembers deceased service members.
Veterans Day honors every service member who served honorably, living or deceased, during times of peace or war. It’s observed to thank active veterans for their service, acknowledges their contributions to national security, and underscores that every veteran, living or deceased, gave their all and fulfilled their civic duties.
Laws ensure sacrifices of those who died for America never fade. The National Moment of Remembrance Act (P.L. 106-579) became law in December 2000. Congress approved it, and the president signed it. This created the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance.
The commission aims to encourage Americans to appreciate their country’s opportunities through Memorial Day events. Its mission: plan ceremonies nationwide honoring military deaths.
Celebrating Veterans Day for the Whole Family
Why do we celebrate veterans day? To honor our fallen heroes. Only a few people remember Veterans Day. In addition to the many military families that likely already mark Veterans Day, non-military families can also celebrate the holiday. These are some ideas for a family-friendly Veterans Day celebration.
Visit a Veterans Affairs Hospital
Find out when the local Veterans Affairs (V.A.) hospitals are open for visits. The hospital may even allow you to participate in a Veterans Day event. If any soldiers in the hospital are open to visits, your kids can make their cards and gifts.
Like any other hospital, patients in a V.A. hospital could use a little happiness from you and your children stopping by with a card and a smile. Make sure your children know the importance of thanking soldiers for their service and educate them about the requirements of becoming a soldier and the motivations behind serving in the armed forces.
Adopt a Soldier
You can put together a care package and “adopt a soldier.” This is a great idea any time of year, not just on Veterans Day. If you’ve been considering adopting a veteran for some time, Veterans Day could motivate you to try it.
Many websites, such as America’s Adopt a Soldier, Operation Adopt a Soldier, and Soldier’s Angels, allow you to adopt a soldier. You can send happy veterans day messages, notes, packages, and monetary donations via these organizations. Some of these programs may allow your children to make a lot of cards that they may mail to one base camp, where multiple soldiers will receive one.
Honor our Heroes as a Family
I hope we have answered all your questions about the difference between memorial day vs veterans day. Veterans endure the utmost stress and pressure to keep America safe. Why do we celebrate veterans day has been answered, but what is important? The most important part of Veterans Day is honoring and appreciating the U.S. military, regardless of how you choose to do so.
