💨 Abstract

Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, honors U.S. military personnel who died in service. Originally called Decoration Day, it began after the Civil War for decorating war graves. Over time, it has evolved into a three-day weekend marking the unofficial start of summer, often blending with other patriotic holidays. Critics argue it's lost its original meaning, with commercialization and leisure activities overshadowing remembrance. Iraq War veteran Edmundo Eugenio Martinez Jr.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff