Memorial Day and Veterans Day are often considered to be the same holiday. However, there are distinct differences between the two. This blog post will outline those differences and provide some history of both holidays.
What is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering and honoring the military personnel who have died in the line of duty. Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May. Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day and was first observed on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers. Memorial Day continued to be observed on May 30 until 1971 when it was declared a federal holiday by an act of Congress and was instead observed on the last Monday in May. On Memorial Day, Americans visit cemeteries and monuments, hold Memorial Day parades, and participate in other activities to honor those who have died while serving in the military. Memorial Day is also considered the start of summer in the United States. Memorial Day 2020 will be observed on Monday, May 25.
What is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is an annual holiday in the United States that honors military veterans. It is observed on November 11, the anniversary of the end of World War I. Veterans Day is a federal holiday, and all government offices and schools are closed on this day. Many businesses also close their doors, although some may remain open. Veterans Day is a day to remember the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. It is also a time to reflect on the sacrifices that they have made to protect our country. Veterans Day is not to be confused with Memorial Day, which is a day to remember those who have died while serving in the military. Veterans Day is about honoring all veterans, both living and deceased.
Difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day
Memorial Day and Veterans Day are both holidays that honor the men and women who have served in the Armed Forces. Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday in May, and it commemorates those who have died in service to their country. Veterans Day, which is observed on November 11th, honors all veterans, living or deceased. Memorial Day originated as a way to honor Union soldiers who had died during the Civil War, and it was originally known as Decoration Day. Veterans Day started out as Armistice Day, which marked the end of World War I. In 1954, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day in order to honor all veterans, not just those who had died in combat. Memorial Day is a somber occasion, while Veterans Day is a day of celebration and thanksgiving.
Conclusion
Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor those who died while serving in the military, whereas Veterans Day celebrates all American veterans. Both days are important in their own way, and it’s important to understand the difference between them. Hopefully, this post has cleared up any confusion about these two holidays.
