Memorial Day Meaning: What You Might Not Know (Plus Easy Ways to Honor It)
Memorial Day isn’t just the unofficial start to summer—it’s a day that, in my opinion, should be rooted in deep reflection and honor.
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Originally known as Decoration Day, it began after the Civil War as a way to honor the soldiers who had died in battle. People would gather, decorate graves with flowers, and remember the heavy cost of freedom. Over time, it became a national holiday, expanded to honor all fallen U.S. military members, and landed on the last Monday of May.
Ways You Can Celebrate Memorial Day With Meaning—Not Just a BBQ
While the meaning remains the same, the way we celebrate has evolved.
Many people still visit cemeteries or attend local ceremonies. Placing flags on veterans’ graves is a touching tradition that families and organizations continue each year. My family is in the Roy and Draper, Utah cemeteries. I love the tradition of traveling with my family to put flowers on all of the family graves. While reading up on Memorial Day observances I learned that some observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 PM local time. It is a quiet pause to honor those who gave everything.
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But Memorial Day can also be about living the freedoms they fought for. Hosting a backyard barbecue with friends, going on a weekend camping trip, or watching a parade in your hometown are all ways to gather and appreciate what it means to live in a free country. Some people even run in Memorial Day 5Ks that raise money for veteran support groups.
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If you’re looking for a more personal way to honor the day, consider writing a letter to a military family, donating to a veterans' charity, or simply taking time to learn about someone who served. I'm sure that if you do a little family research, you will find many in your family tree.
No matter how you spend it, just remembering—really remembering—makes all the difference.
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22 Great Memorial Day Songs
Of course the best Memorial Day songs come from country music greats. Check out the Top 22 songs that honor fallen soldiers, including well-known hits by Toby Keith, Billy Ray Cyrus, the Statler Brothers and more.
Newly added for Memorial Day 2025: a 20-year-old soldier tribute from Tracy Lawrence.
Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes
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