What’s the Difference Between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?
As Americans, we have two important holidays each year to honor our military service members and their sacrifices. Veterans Day and Memorial Day are often confused with each other, but they have distinct meanings and purposes. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two patriotic holidays.
What is Memorial Day?
Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May each year. It was originally established to honor the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The holiday began after the Civil War to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers and was officially proclaimed Memorial Day by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966.
Key Points:
- Honors the dead: Memorial Day is specifically focused on remembering and honoring those who have died in service to their country.
- Last Monday of May: Memorial Day is always observed on the last Monday of May, making it a long weekend.
- Originally created: Memorial Day was created after the Civil War to honor the fallen soldiers.
What is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is a federal holiday observed on November 11th each year. It was originally known as Armistice Day, which commemorated the end of World War I. After World War II, the holiday was expanded to honor all American veterans, not just those who died in service.
Key Points:
- Honors living and dead: Veterans Day honors both living and deceased veterans, as well as those who are currently serving in the military.
- November 11th: Veterans Day is always observed on November 11th, which marks the anniversary of the end of World War I.
- Expanded purpose: The holiday’s purpose was expanded to include all American veterans after World War II.
Differences:
So, what’s the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day? Here are the main differences:
| Holidays | Purpose | Observed | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memorial Day | Honors the dead | Last Monday of May | Remembers those who have died in service |
| Veterans Day | Honors living and dead | November 11th | Commemorates the end of World War I, honors all American veterans |
When to Show Your Appreciation:
Both holidays offer opportunities to show your appreciation for military service members and their families. Here’s when to show your gratitude:
- Memorial Day: Visit a national cemetery, attend a Memorial Day service, or volunteer at a local charity event.
- Veterans Day: Thank a veteran for their service, participate in a Veterans Day parade or ceremony, or offer a small gesture of appreciation, such as a homemade card or baked goods.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while both Veterans Day and Memorial Day are important holidays that honor military service members, they serve different purposes. Memorial Day specifically honors those who have died in service, while Veterans Day recognizes the contributions and sacrifices of all American veterans. By understanding the differences between these holidays, we can better show our appreciation and gratitude to those who have served our country.
