No, a long weekend road trip, a backyard barbecue, or sales aren't the point of Memorial Day. The holiday's true significance is much more solemn.
The holiday on Monday—originally known as Decoration Day—honors all soldiers who lost their lives while defending the country.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Memorial Day's origins can be traced to the time of the Civil War. It was made a federal holiday by an act of Congress in 1971.
Memorial Day, as opposed to Veterans Day, honors all U.S. military personnel who have passed away while on active duty.
Here are some Memorial Day facts you might not be aware of in advance of the holiday this year:
No, a long weekend road trip, a backyard barbecue, or sales aren't the point of Memorial Day. The holiday's true significance is much more solemn.