Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed in the United States to honor and remember the men and women who have died while serving in the country’s armed forces. It is a day of remembrance and a time to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their nation.
Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May each year. It is a time when people remember the courage and selflessness of those who died while serving in the military, including soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and members of the Coast Guard. The holiday has its roots in the aftermath of the American Civil War, when communities began holding ceremonies and decorating the graves of fallen soldiers.
Traditionally, Memorial Day is marked by various activities and observances. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, where they may place flags or flowers on the graves of fallen servicemembers. Parades and memorial services are also common, allowing communities to come together to honor the memory of those who died in service.
In addition to its solemn nature, Memorial Day also serves as the unofficial start of the summer season in the United States. It is often celebrated with barbecues, picnics, and outdoor activities, as friends and families gather to spend time together.
President Biden’s Memorial Day Proclamation, 2023:
On Memorial Day, we honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. We acknowledge the debt we can never fully repay and recommit ourselves to their cause. We also stand by the families, caregivers, and survivors they left behind.
Throughout history, these courageous individuals have answered the call of duty, defending our democracy and fighting for our freedom. As they rest in eternal peace, we carry the torch of liberty they so valiantly upheld worldwide.
Memorial Day is a day of mixed emotions, where we mourn the loss of our service members, including America’s Gold Star Families. We recognize their pain and stand in solidarity. We know their loved ones were part of something greater, dedicating their lives to a purpose and preserving the United States of America—an idea unparalleled in human history.
These fallen heroes are the heart and backbone of our nation. Today and every day, we remember their service and sacrifice. We reflect on our commitment to caring for their families. Together, as we pause and pray, we vow to continue defending freedom and democracy in their honor. May God bless our fallen heroes and protect our troops.
In recognition of all fallen service members, the Congress has requested a proclamation for Memorial Day as a day of prayer for permanent peace. Additionally, 3:00 p.m. local time has been designated as the National Moment of Remembrance, a time for Americans to observe in their own way.
Therefore, I, President Joseph R. Biden Jr., proclaim May 29, 2023, as a day of prayer for permanent peace. I encourage people to unite in prayer and reflection starting at 11:00 a.m. in their respective localities. I urge the cooperation of the press and media in this observance. I also call upon all Americans to participate in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day.
I request the Governors and officials of all government units to fly the flag at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day. I encourage families, friends, and neighbors to honor our fallen service members by posting tributes on the Veterans Legacy Memorial website. Displaying the flag at half-staff from homes during the customary forenoon period is also suggested.
In witness whereof, I have set my hand this 26th day of May, 2023, in the year of our Lord and the 247th year of the Independence of the United States of America.