Formerly called Decoration Day. Honors United States soldiers and sailors who have died in wars. The custom began soon after the Civil War. In 1868 Gen. John A. Logan, commander in chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, named May 30 for decorating the graves of Union soldiers. May 30 may have been chosen because that was the date of discharge of the last Union volunteers.
Some states celebrate on the tradition date.
Memorial Day honors the American Military who have died in their service for the country. Logan instructed Army installations to decorate graves and conduct special services as circumstances permitted. The general wrote the celebration had two purposes, other than honoring war undivided republic, and to renew our nation's pledge to assist the soldier's and sailor widows and orphans. It is a legal holiday in most of the States . It is a day to honor Americans who gave their lives for their country.