Commemorating Memorial Day: Key Facts and Traditions

Memorial Day is a U.S. holiday honoring military personnel who died in service. Originally called Decoration Day, it began after the Civil War to honor fallen soldiers. Now observed on the last Monday in May, it includes traditions like decorating graves and parades. The American flag and red poppies are key symbols. A national moment of remembrance occurs at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day. MOA Michael popularized the poppy symbol, and a stamp honors her contribution. The video includes a quiz to reinforce learning.

What was the original name of Memorial Day?

• Decoration Day

• Civil War Day

• Independence Day

• Victory Day

When was Memorial Day first observed?

• November 11th, 1918

• December 25th, 1945

• May 30th, 1868

• July 4th, 1776

On which day do we observe Memorial Day each year?

• The last Monday in March

• The last Monday in May

• Veterans Day

• July 4th

Why was May 30th originally chosen for Decoration Day?

• It was the President's birthday

• It was the day the first soldier died in the Civil War

• It was the end of the Civil War

• It coincided with the time of year when spring flowers are in full bloom

What is the National Moment of Remembrance?

• A minute of silence at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day

• A national holiday on July 4th

• A ceremony at the White House

• A parade held in Washington D.C.

Which of the following is NOT a traditional way to observe Memorial Day?

• Sharing a meal with friends and family

• Exchanging presents under a tree

• Placing flowers on the graves of fallen soldiers

• Participating in a parade

What does lowering the flag to half-staff represent?

• A reminder to honor people who serve in government positions

• A reminder to visit the grave of a soldier

• A reminder to remember the sacrifice of servicemen and women

• A reminder to thank a soldier

What does raising the flag back to full staff symbolize?

• Service men and women will always be alive in our hearts

• Rising up to continue the fight for liberty for all

• Celebrating life and living it fully

• Honoring the freedom and liberty obtained through the work of soldiers

Who connected poppies with the lives of soldiers and started a movement to raise funds for servicemen in need?

• Moina Michael

• Barack Obama

• Michael Jackson

• George Washington

How did the U.S. honor Moina Michael for her contribution to Memorial Day?

• She has poppies laid on her grave every year

• She has a school named after her

• She has a stamp with her picture on it

• She has a holiday named after her