Put down the beer and hot dog – it’s time to remember the Memorial Day holiday properly.
The Memorial Day holiday isn’t just an excuse to take a long weekend and enjoy a barbeque, it’s the day to honor American soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Before you head out to your pool parties and other gatherings, here are some facts about everyone’s favorite summer kick-off holiday!
It was originally called Decoration Day. Soldiers’ gravestones would be decorated with flowers, flags, and wreaths. In 1967, Memorial Day became the official title.
It originally honored military personnel who died in the Civil War (1861 – 1865). Roughly 620,000 Americans died in the Civil War, making it the deadliest war in American history.
It’s legally required to observe a National Moment of Remembrance. In December 2000, Congress passed a law requiring Americans to pause at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to remember and honor the fallen.
Waterloo, New York was considered the birthplace of Memorial Day. Waterloo first celebrated the holiday on May 5th, 1866.
Several states observe Confederate Memorial Day. Nine states official set aside a day to honor those who died fighting for Confederacy in the Civil War: Texas, South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama, Virginia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Georgia.
Red poppies are worn as a symbol of remembrance, and it’s traditional to wear them to honor those who died in the war.
More than 36 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home on this Memorial Day, according to AAA estimates. That is the highest total since the recession.
Let us know, how are you spending Memorial Day? Although our offices will be closed so that we can observe Memorial Day, Eastland Escrows is here to streamline your escrow process! Contact our trusted professionals today to get started on your escrow service in Covina and neighboring cities in California
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