Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Armed Forces Day are three distinct days in the United States dedicated to recognizing and honoring the service and sacrifices of military personnel… Although all these commemorations honor the military personnel, past or present, they vary in their objectives and emphasis.
What are the differences? How can I differentiate each day?
Memorial Day honors all military that lost their lives
Photo by Justin Cron on Unsplash
Memorial Day takes place on the last Monday of May. The U.S. military honors and commemorates the men and women who have lost their lives while serving. It was originally called Decoration Day, and began after the Civil War when communities throughout the country started honoring fallen soldiers by adorning their graves with flowers, flags, and other symbols of remembrance.
The goal of this day was to adorn the tombs of deceased soldiers from the Union and Confederate sides of the Civil War. Major General John Logan set the day to be May 30th because a majority of the graves were found in the south where flowers would be in full bloom.
Until America fought in World War I, May 30th ceased to be the yearly day of remembrance for all Civil War dead and became one day to remember all military losses in any war. In 1971, Memorial Day was permanently moved to the last Monday in May and declared a national holiday.
Various events and traditions mark Memorial Day such as ceremonies at national cemeteries, parades, and the placement of flags or flowers on the graves of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Families and friends gather during this time to remember their loved ones who have passed away while serving in the military.
Veterans Day honors all military veterans who have served in the Armed Forces
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Veterans Day is celebrated annually on November 11 in the United States. The purpose of this day is to honor and thank all military veterans for their service, regardless of whether they served during wartime or peacetime.
Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day was established in 1919 to commemorate the first anniversary of the end of World War I. However, in 1954, due to America having just gone through World War II, Armistice Day was no longer considered a broad enough day of recognition.
There were servicewomen and servicemen who served in WWII which required recognition and honor. Therefore, the name was officially changed from Armistice Day to Veterans Day by Congress – and it was signed into law by then-president Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Armed Forces Day
Photo by Brett Sayles
All those who are currently serving in the military are honored on Armed Forces Day. Armed Forces Day pays tribute to all present military personnel serving in any branch of the Armed Forces, unlike the first two holidays.
The third Saturday of May is when Armed Forces Day is celebrated every year. Honoring and recognizing the current members of the military across all branches, including the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard.
In 1949, President Harry S. Truman created Armed Forces Day to merge the individual military branch celebrations into one unified day. The unification of the military services under the newly formed Department of Defense was done in conjunction with this. May 20, 1950, marked the celebration of the inaugural Armed Forces Day.
Armed Forces Day is marked by various events and activities across the country and military installations often hold open houses and demonstrations to showcase their capabilities and equipment, allowing civilians to gain a better understanding of the military’s role and the service members’ duties.
FAQs
– Is Memorial Day celebrated in other countries?
Although Memorial Day is unique to the United States, numerous other nations have their own days to pay tribute to their fallen soldiers. Remembrance Day is observed by many countries, including the United Kingdom and Canada.
– Is it appropriate to say “Happy Memorial Day”?
The day is meant for remembrance and mourning of those who died in military service, so some people find it inappropriate to say Happy Memorial Day.
– Are government offices open on Memorial Day?
Most government offices are closed on Memorial Day as it is a federal holiday. Federal buildings, post offices, and courts are all included.
– How can I respectfully observe Memorial Day?
Attending a parade or ceremony, visiting the graves of fallen soldiers, and flying the U.S. flag at half-staff until noon could all be included.
– On Veterans Day, what is the best way to show appreciation to veterans?
On Veterans Day, there are numerous methods to express gratitude toward veterans. You have the option to attend a Veterans Day event in your community, pay a visit to a veterans hospital or nursing home, or express your gratitude to a veteran for their service. Organizations that support veterans receive donations from some people.
– How should I address a veteran on Veterans Day?
Addressing a veteran on Veterans Day with a simple thank you for their service is a respectful gesture. Wishing them a Happy Veterans Day is also an option.
– How is Armed Forces Day celebrated?
Typically, parades, open houses, receptions, and air shows are held to celebrate Armed Forces Day. On this day, many communities organize local celebrations to honor those serving in the armed forces, and the U.S. flag is also flown.
– Are there any special events taking place at military bases on Armed Forces Day?
On Armed Forces Day, numerous military bases hold special events, including air shows, equipment demonstrations, runs or walks to support the troops, and other community activities. The military designs these events to enhance public understanding of its missions.
Photo by Brett Sayles
Mario Samuel Camacho
Mario Samuel Camacho is a full-time copywriter and content writer. For the past 5 years, Mario has been constantly learning in a quest to better himself and those around him.
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