Self-Instruct
With so many holidays to keep track of, it can be easy to confuse the meaning and purpose behind certain ones. Two holidays specifically that often get mixed up are Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Though both are important holidays celebrating the sacrifices of our military, they have different meanings and purposes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what sets these two holidays apart.
Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a holiday that honors the brave men and women who have died while serving in the United States armed forces. The holiday began in the aftermath of the Civil War where Union soldiers would decorate the graves of fallen soldiers. Originally known as Decoration Day, it was made an official holiday by Congress in 1971 and its purpose expanded to include honoring all military personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Memorial Day takes place on the last Monday in May and is observed with a national moment of remembrance at 3 pm local time. Traditionally, people celebrate the day with parades, barbecues, and visiting cemeteries to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers.
It’s important to note the somber nature of Memorial Day. It’s a day for reflection and remembrance of those who gave their lives for our freedom. Veterans who are still living are typically not celebrated on Memorial Day, as it’s meant solely for those who have passed away.
Veterans Day
Veterans Day, on the other hand, is a holiday that celebrates all those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The holiday began as Armistice Day, a day to honor the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. In 1954, it was renamed Veterans Day to honor all veterans who have served in all wars.
Veterans Day takes place on November 11th every year. This date is significant as it marks the end of World War I, but it is also a reminder to honor all veterans’ bravery and sacrifice. Like Memorial Day, Veterans Day is an official federal holiday, meaning that federal employees and most schools generally have the day off.
Veterans Day is celebrated with parades and speeches honoring the brave men and women who have served our country. It’s also a day for businesses to offer discounts and deals to veterans, thanking them for their service.
What sets Veterans Day apart from Memorial Day is that it’s meant to celebrate those who are still living. It’s a day to acknowledge the sacrifices and service of all veterans and thank them for their commitment to our country.
Key Differences
The key differences between Memorial Day and Veterans Day are as follows:
Purpose: Memorial Day is meant to honor the men and women who have died while serving our country while Veterans Day is a celebration of all veterans who have served, whether they’re still with us or passed away.
Date: Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday in May while Veterans Day is always on November 11th.
Observation: Memorial Day is typically observed with somber events like parades and cemetery visits while Veterans Day is celebrated with parades, speeches, and events thanking veterans for their service.
Conclusion
Keeping the differences between Memorial Day and Veterans Day in mind is important to show proper respect and appreciation for our military personnel. Both holidays honor the bravery and sacrifice of those in the military, but in different ways. Memorial Day is a somber day to remember those who have lost their lives, while Veterans Day is a celebratory day to thank all veterans for their service to our country. By understanding the purpose and meaning behind these holidays, we can better honor and respect those who have served.