Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed in the United States on the last Monday of May. The day is dedicated to commemorating the death of the American soldiers who died in wars and all kinds of armed conflicts in which the United States of America took part. This observance was started by the Civil War in the US and was initially dedicated to the soldiers of the north that died in this war. After the first World War people started to commemorate the death of the soldiers that died in other military conflicts besides the Civil War. And since 1971 the Memorial Day was officially recognized by the government as a National holiday. On this day Americans visit cemeteries and military memorials to stand in memory of the deceased soldiers and the US flag is usually lowered to half-mast on this day until midday eastern US time. Many Americans consider this day actual beginning of the summer. Traditionally it is accompanied by family reunions, picnics, barbecues, sports competitions etc. In addition to observances on the federal level, community observances are also held, for example citizens of a small town commemorate the death of all soldiers who lived in this town by having a ceremony in a church or a memorial park. To honor such deceased residents numerous towns and cities organize Memorial Day parades. A holiday similar to the Memorial Day in the US is the Veterans Day, celebrated on the 11th of November but unlike the Memorial Day, this holiday is dedicated to all veterans of wars, whether alive or dead.