2. History of the Holiday The Americans honor fallen soldiers. President Richard Nixon declared Memorial Day a federal holiday on the last Monday in May, to pay respect to the men and women that have died in wars or in service of their country.
3. Memorial Day became a holiday in 1971 along with other holidays. On Memorial Day, the president or vice president of the United States gives a speech and lays a wreath on the tombs. Members of the armed forces shoot a rifle salute in the air. Veterans and families come to lay their own wreaths and say prayers. It is a day of reflection .
4. Customs and Traditions People celebrate this holiday at cemeteries and at monuments. Americans celebrate this holiday to honor the fallen soldiers. The president and vice president put flags and flowers on the tombs where the soldiers are buried.
5. Works Cited American Holidays . American Information Resource Center (AIRC) of the U.S. Embassy. 25 Oct. 2007 <http://www.usinfo.pl/aboutusa/holidays/memorial.htm>.
