Memorial Day, originally known as “Decoration Day,” began as a springtime observance to honor soldiers who died while serving in the American Civil War.
On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), issued a proclamation calling for “Decoration Day” to be observed annually and nationwide.
By the 20th Century, Memorial Day eventually expanded to honor all Americans who fought and died while in service with the U.S. military…