Historical1868
First Nationwide Memorial Day Observance
The first nationwide Memorial Day (originally called Decoration Day) was observed at Arlington National Cemetery, where flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers. General John A. Logan had issued General Order No. 11 designating the day.
Why It Matters
Memorial Day honors the sacrifice of those who gave their lives in defense of the nation, reinforcing the civic duty of remembrance and the cost of preserving democratic self-governance.