Did you know?

Memorial Day was first observed in 1868 to honor the dead soldiers of the Civil War (which had just ended in 1865). That first year, 5,000 volunteers helped decorate the graves of over 20,000 Civil War soldiers (both Union and Confederate) who were buried at Arlington Cemetery. Ever since, we have used that day to honor the sacrifices of those who have died in active military service. Thank you to them, their families and communities.