Memorial Day and Veterans Day are two significant holidays in the United States that honor the sacrifices and services of our military personnel. While these holidays may seem similar at first glance, differentiating between Memorial Day and Veterans Day is quite important so that everyone gets the recognition they deserve. Each day has different purposes, origins, and associated customs you should know about.

The Purpose of Each

Memorial Day and Veterans Day serve different purposes. Memorial Day is a solemn day for remembering and honoring those who lost their lives while serving in the armed forces. It is a time for reflection on the ultimate sacrifice that these brave individuals made. On the other hand, Veterans Day is a celebration to thank and honor all veterans who have served our country, regardless of whether they saw combat. It is a day to recognize their contributions and sacrifices, both in peacetime and wartime.

Holiday Origins

Memorial Day was originally Decoration Day and began in the years following the Civil War as a way to honor Union soldiers who died in battle. The first official observance took place on May 30, 1868, when people placed flowers on the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. Veterans Day, initially Armistice Day, was a day to commemorate the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. It later expanded to honor all veterans, with President Dwight D. Eisenhower signing the bill into law in 1954.

Customs of Each Holiday

On Memorial Day, it is customary to visit cemeteries, decorate graves with flags and flowers, and participate in memorial services. Many families hold gatherings to honor their loved ones who have served.

In contrast, Veterans Day is a day of parades, community events, and ceremonies that celebrate veterans. Many organizations and businesses also offer discounts or free meals to veterans as a gesture of gratitude.

The Symbolism of Each Holiday

The red poppy flower has become a powerful symbol of Memorial Day, a day dedicated to honoring and remembering the brave men and women who lost their lives in military service. The vivid red of the poppy represents the blood shed by these heroes and is often worn or displayed to pay tribute to their ultimate sacrifice.

On the other hand, the yellow ribbon serves as a significant symbol for Veterans Day, a day to honor all veterans who have served in the military, both past and present. The yellow ribbon signifies support and solidarity for current members of the military, representing a community’s appreciation for their bravery.

While they may seem similar, Memorial Day and Veterans Day have distinct meanings, origins, and customs, and differentiating between them is important. By learning about each holiday, you can better appreciate the sacrifices of military personnel. However, whether you’re honoring people on Memorial Day or Veterans Day, you still need the same thing—American flags from Independence Bunting. With our selection of flags and patriotic flag bunting, it’s easy to honor those who have selflessly served this nation.