If you are traveling this year for Memorial Day weekend, there are many special events and spirited parades that will help remind you of what the holiday is all about- honoring our American soldiers!
So do any of us really know exactly how, when or where we started celebrating Memorial Day? Well, on May 5, 1868, the Union veterans, of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the brave soldiers who died in war with beautiful flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30, and it is believed that date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country. The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. Congress and President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, N.Y., the “Birthplace” of Memorial Day. There was a ceremony held on May 5, 1866, honoring local veterans who had fought in the Civil War.
However it was not until after World War I, that the day was expanded to honor those who had died in all the American wars. Memorial Day was declared a national holiday in 1971 by an act of Congress, though it is still often referred to by some as Decoration Day. By the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held on May 30 throughout the nation.
Memorial Day is often thought of as that holiday that marks the span between spring, and summer weather to kick off the long awaited summer festivities. But more importantly, Memorial Day is a special day to remember all of those who served in the US armed forces. It’s an ideal day to spend time with friends and family and bring the kids to a patriotic parade. This year talk a walk through history, and pay your respect to the veterans who served their country, as you enjoy the best Memorial Day parades in America.
Washington DC-
Who else but the country’s capital would put together the most patriotic parade in the states? Hosted by the American Veterans Center, this parade recognizes veterans from the Revolutionary war to the present day Iraq war. This spirited and popular parade attracts more than 250,000 visitors each year. This traditional parade includes military bands, floats, choruses and of course veterans! The parade is lively and patriotic and it passes some of the countries most famous landmarks, including the white house!
Chicago, Illinois
A tradition since 1870, this is one of the largest parades in the nation and it comes alive with school bands, choruses and eye popping floats. The wreath laying ceremony takes place at the Eternal Flame on Daley Plaza to recognize soldiers who died at war. Gold Star Family members can be recognized from wearing the gold star pin, a symbol and remembrance of their loved one who they lost at battle.
New York City, New York
The Brooklyn Memorial Day parade has been celebrated for 147 years! This parade is especially meaningful as Memorial Day coincides with Fleet Week, the annual celebration of sailors who serve on ships, to come and explore life on land for several weeks. The ships sail up the Hudson River, and thousands of navy soldiers let loose upon the streets of New York for fun and excitement.
Support our soldiers!
Memorial Day is more than just a 3 day weekend for a BBQ. It’s a message to our soldiers that we will never forget their commitment and their sacrifice There are many ways to give back to our soldiers. Our Wounded Warriors and their families need our help. There are organizations you can support such as the Fallen Hero Fund, Purple Heart and the Vietnam Veterans.
A wonderful CNN article on 9 ways to help Veterans gives you more ideas and resources for getting involved. National Veterans Foundation is committed to helping all our veterans as is DAV Disabled American Veterans. For the Dog lovers, Vets Helping Hero’s is another wonderful way to get involved as well. How you choose to remember our American soldiers this Memorial Day is up to you, just make sure that you do!
Wishing you a safe and happy Memorial Day – from All Star Travel!
We have our own program of “paying it forward.” For every rental booking we take, we make a donation to a pediatric cancer research center. Make your travel dollars go farther, and book a great car with a great rate through All Star Travel. We promise you will not be disappointed! Be sure to check out our Blog frequently for updated travel information.