Memorial Day – May 30, 2016

Laurie Olsen Uncategorized

flag at half staffOn Memorial Day, the United States recognizes the people who have died in service to their country. The American flag plays an important part in the celebration of the day.

History of Memorial Day

Memorial Day became an official holiday in 1971. The holiday is celebrated in the United States on the last Monday in May.  Beginning in 2000, Congress established the National Moment of Remembrance, asking citizens to pause for a moment of silence and respect at 3:00 pm on Memorial Day.

Memorial Day is often considered the unofficial beginning of the summer season and is a time for family and friends to gather for picnics and activities. Many cities hold parades and people often visit cemeteries to honor those who have died in military service.

Flying the American Flag on Memorial Day

On Memorial day the US flag is raised briskly to the top of the staff and then solemnly lowered to half-staff position, where it remains only until Noon.  It is then raised to full staff for the remainder of the day.  The half-staff position remembers the more than one million men and women who gave their lives in service of their country. At noon their memory is raised by the living, who resolve not to let their sacrifice be in vain, but to rise up in their stead and continue the fight for liberty and justice for all.

Memorial Day Events

National Events:

Local Events:

Do you need a flag?

If you’re interested in purchasing a flag to fly on Memorial Day, please visit our pages for American Flags and Armed Forces/POW-MIA Flags. If you have any other questions about flags, please contact us.