Memorial Day 2025
Honoring Our Fallen Heroes
When is Memorial Day 2025?
Monday, May 26, 2025
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What is Memorial Day?
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Official Federal Holiday
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring and mourning military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
It is observed on the last Monday of May, as established by the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968.
1
History & Origin
- Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War.
- The first national celebration occurred May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery.
- The name 'Memorial Day' became more common after World War II and was officially changed by federal law in 1967.
2
Federal Recognition
- Memorial Day is one of eleven federal holidays in the United States.
- All federal offices are closed, and federal employees receive paid time off.
- Most state government offices and many private businesses also observe the holiday.
3
Significance
- The holiday honors service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
- It serves as a time for Americans to remember and honor fallen military personnel.
- Traditional observances include visiting cemeteries and memorials.
4
Modern Observance
- Modern celebrations include parades, memorial services, and wreath-laying ceremonies.
- The National Moment of Remembrance occurs at 3:00 PM local time.
- Many Americans display flags at half-staff and visit military cemeteries.
Upcoming Memorial Day Dates
Year
Date
2025
Monday, May 26
2026
Monday, May 25
2027
Monday, May 31
2028
Monday, May 29
2029
Monday, May 28
Memorial Day is always observed on the last Monday of May.
Traditions & Historical Facts
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Celebrations
- •National moment of remembrance at 3:00 PM local time
- •Parades and memorial ceremonies across the country
- •Placing of flags and flowers on military graves
- •Military flyovers and gun salutes at ceremonies
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Historical Significance
- •Originally called Decoration Day, established in 1868
- •First widely observed on May 30, 1868 to commemorate Civil War fallen
- •Became an official federal holiday in 1971
- •Over 1 million service members honored who died in U.S. wars
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Legacy Impact
- •Arlington National Cemetery conducts annual ceremonies
- •Over 260,000 graves decorated with flags each year
- •Inspired similar observances worldwide
- •Strengthens national unity and remembrance
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Educational Impact
- •Schools organize veterans' memorial programs
- •Military history education and exhibitions
- •Community engagement in preservation of military monuments
- •Youth participation in memorial ceremonies
Frequently Asked Questions
Memorial Day Quotes
“The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example.”
Benjamin Disraeli
British Prime Minister