Americans honor their military heroes, both fallen and living, in many ways. Today we will focus on one program Wreaths Across America, but first we will highlight some of the most meaningful ways Americans pay their respects.
Memorial Day is a time when we mourn and honor the military heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. The holiday began in a few communities soon after the Civil War. Parades, patriotic ceremonies and the installation of markers recognizing individual military personnel who fell in the line of duty are held in towns and cities throughout the United States. From 1868 to 1970 it was observed on May 30. Since 1971, it is observed on the last Monday in May, making it a three-day weekend when thousands of travelers visit with friends and relatives.
Veterans Day commemorates all Americans who have served in the military, living or deceased and whether they served in wartime or peacetime. Veterans Day originated after World War l ended with the signing of an armistice on Nov. 11, 1918. President Wilson proclaimed the first Armistice Day on Nov. 11, 1919. Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 by President Eisenhower at the urging of. veterans’ organization so it would honor all veterans rather than mark the end of a single war. Veterans Day is always celebrated on November 11.
On Memorial Day and Veterans Day the President or his designee lays a memorial wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The first military burial at Arlington Cemetery took place on May 13, 1864. Approximately 30 funeral services are held each weekday at the cemetery. More than 250,000 wreaths will be placed in Arlington National Cemetery on National Wreaths Across America Day on Dec. 16, 2023.
Medal of Honor
The Medal of Honor was first awarded in 1863. It is our military’s highest honor,…
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