What is Memorial Day?Memorial Day (formerly known as Decoration Day) is a United States federal holiday. This holiday commemorates U.S. men and women who have died in military service to their country. It began first to honor Union soldiers who died during the American Civil War. After World War I, it was expanded to include those who died in any war or military action. It is also traditionally viewed as the beginning of summer by many, for many schools are dismissed around Memorial Day. |