All are asked to take part in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 P.M.
Memorial Day is a national Holiday in the United States which for many years has been observed on the last Monday of May, (May 30th in 2011).
Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates the loss of U.S. soldiers who have died while in the military service and was first inaugurated as a ritual of remembrance and reconciliation after the Civil War.
Memorial Day was expanded after World War I to honor soldiers who have died in all wars.
By the early 20th century, Memorial Day was an occasion for more general expressions of remembrance of those who had passed on, as families visited the graves of their deceased relatives, whether or not they had served in the military.
Of course Memorial Day now also traditionally marks the start of the summer vacation season for many families.
National Moment of Moment of Remembrance
In 1996, a humanitarian organization based in Washington, D.C., conducted a survey of children and asked them why they thought there is a holiday on Memorial Day.
It was awkward to listen to the remarks that were made regarding barbecues and extended weekend parties and celebrations, Holiday “Blow Out” Sales, etc., while there was little awareness or association of the Holiday regarding the sacrifices of the soldiers in whose honor it is celebrated.
The organization came up with the idea of a 'National Moment of Remembrance' to remind our citizens of their obligation to pay their respects to those who have passed and also raise awareness of the importance of this holiday.
The idea resonated with the President and Congress and since 1997; it has become an American tradition.
The National Moment of Remembrance asks everyone to maintain silence for a minute, exactly at 3.00 P.M., when 'Taps' may also be sounded and so that all can solemnly reflect on the sacrifice of those who have died in military service.
Proper Display of the American Flag on Memorial Day
Many people also express their patriotism and remembrance of those who died servering our country by dispalying the American Flag at their homes. If you plan to display the Flag, please take a moment to visit the attached link regarding the proper display of the United States Flag, See Code - (36 USC 10) http://suvcw.org/flag.htm
