Memorial Day in the United States commemorates those who have died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it emerged after the Civil War as a means to honor fallen soldiers. The holiday was formalized in 1971, occurring on the last Monday of May. Memorial Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel in defense of the nation, allowing families and communities to pay tribute to their loved ones. Beyond honoring the deceased, the day has evolved to recognize all veterans and the impact of military service on American society.