BRIEF: Examining Memorial Day’s past and present

The University of Houston Clear Lake (UHCL) will be closed Monday May 25 for the annual U.S. holiday Memorial Day. The holiday is meant to be a day to remember and honor those who have passed away in service to the country.

History

Memorial Day began as a holiday celebrated in May to honor those who fought in the Civil War. The day became known as Decoration Day and was on May 30. 

However, shortly after World War I, the day that would become known as Memorial Day would be observed as a day to remember Americans who fought in all American conflicts. The day continued to be celebrated on May 30 until Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. This act established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May, with the reason being to create a three day weekend for federal employees. 

The day was declared an official and federal holiday in 1971, the effect also going into effect that year. 

One of the lesser known facts about Memorial Day is the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time. This time acts as an official moment of silence to remember fallen soldiers. The origins of this tradition are not entirely known.

Veterans Day

The distinction between Memorial Day and the November holiday Veterans Day is often confused. The distinction between the two is that Memorial Day is intended as a day of remembrance for those who passed away in their service for the United States. Veterans Day intends to honor soldiers both alive and dead.

COVID-19

Multiple government entities have declared hope that COVID-19 restrictions lessen by Memorial Day. The White House recently announced the COVID-19 task force is expected to wind down around Memorial Day. The number of cases are nevertheless expected to double by August.