Memorial Day 2022, observed every year on the last Monday in May, honors those who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It’s also a day to honor all veterans and their families, whether they lost loved ones while in service or were involved in other meaningful ways.
Memorial Day doesn’t have to be an occasion of solemnity and mourning, however; it can also be about commemorating the great things veterans have done both during and after their time in the military, giving you an opportunity to honor them by thanking them for their service to you and your country.
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Understanding Why We Celebrate Memorial Day
Memorial Day stands for patriotism, courage, sacrifice and commitment. It is a day where we pay our respects to all of those who have served or are currently serving in our armed forces. It is important that we acknowledge what Memorial Day means and how it came about. The initial reason behind celebrating Memorial Day was to honor those who died while fighting in the Civil War and as a way for families to remember their loved ones.
After World War I ended, more people began participating in Memorial Day ceremonies and it became an official holiday on May 8th in 1971. Nowadays, people from all over gather at cemeteries, military bases and veteran memorials all over in order to pay their respects for what these brave individuals have done for our country.
The History of Memorial Day
Memorial Day was first observed in 1868. It’s a holiday commemorating all Americans who have died while serving in military service. The name comes from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, where an annual wreath-laying ceremony is held on Memorial Day (more information on that below).
Some people refer to Memorial Day as Decoration Day, but they’re one and the same. Memorial Day has been celebrated on different days over its history—the current date of May 30 was established in 1968 by Congress—but it always falls near May 29th, which is when Confederate General Johnston surrendered at Bennett Place, effectively ending The Civil War.
Is Memorial Day always the last Monday in May?
Memorial Day 2022 is always on May 30th, so in 2022 it will be on a Monday. This date, Memorial Day is observed by most government agencies as a day of remembrance for those who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The employees are given a paid day off for their participation in memorial services and other observances during that weekend. But what does Memorial Day stand for? And how do you respectably celebrate Memorial Day 2022?
Traditions Associated With Memorial Day 2022
Memorial Day 2022 is associated with several different traditions, which have changed over time. In 1868, after a particularly brutal Civil War battle in which hundreds of Union soldiers were injured or killed, General John Logan declared that we should set aside a day to perpetuate their memory. The following year, Memorial Day was officially established by Congress as a national holiday honoring those who died during military service for our country.
However, until recently it wasn’t considered an official federal holiday and many people had regular business hours on Memorial Day Monday. These days though everyone recognizes Memorial Day as an important day of remembrance and honor for those who made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our country.
Acknowledging Employees On Memorial Day 2022
Every year, people across America gather with family and friends to commemorate Memorial Day. While most Americans know that Memorial Day 2022 is a day when we reflect on those who died while serving in our nation’s armed forces, many aren’t exactly sure why we do it or how best to do it.
To ensure you and your employees are honoring veterans responsibly and appropriately, consider some of these guidelines: When possible, allow employees time off from work to attend memorial services and gatherings. Don’t forget about remote workers; allowing them time off for such events will also promote a respectful workplace environment.
Ways To Recognize Veterans During This Holiday
There are tons of ways to respectfully recognize veterans and many organizations like The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, founded by Gold Star mother Bonnie Carroll after her son was killed in Iraq, can help your company get involved. Memorial Day stands for so much more than simply taking off from work or a three-day weekend.
This is a time when we can all take a moment to pause and reflect on what it means to be an American; how important our freedoms are; how grateful we should be for those who serve—and have served—in our armed forces. To show your employees you care about honoring veterans, tell them not only about your company’s participation with TAPS, but also any other efforts (such as veteran hiring initiatives) that demonstrate your commitment.
Things To Say To A Veteran On Memorial Day 2022
On Memorial Day 2022, we remember those who have made sacrifices in order for us to live free lives. To thank a veteran on Memorial Day, simply say thank you and make sure they know that their sacrifice is appreciated. If you want to go beyond a simple thank you, try one of these phrases: Thank you for your service.; Thank you for your brave actions.; or, Thank you for protecting my freedom. These phrases may sound a little over-the-top, but veterans will appreciate them! Whatever phrase(s) you choose, be sure that it reflects what’s in your heart. After all, a sincere thank-you is all any veteran wants!
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