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While Memorial Day is a solemn holiday, it also marks the unofficial start of what season?
Summer
What other name is Memorial Day known by?
Decoration Day
Memorial Day is officially recognized on what day each year?
The last Monday in May
What is the official song of the U.S. Air Force?
“Wild Blue Yonder”
Which president signed the National Moment of Remembrance Act?
President Bill Clinton signed the National Moment of Remembrance Act into law on December 28, 2000.
If Memorial Day is unofficially the start of summer, then which federal holiday marks summer’s unofficial end?
Labor Day
Memorial Day was originally established to honor fallen soldiers of which war?
The Civil War
In what year did observing Memorial Day on the last Monday in May become law?
1971
What flower is worn in honor of Memorial Day?
The poppy
Memorial Day is held in May for what reason?
Memorial Day is held in May because General John A. Logan originally chose May 30 as "Decoration Day" in 1868 so citizens could decorate the graves of fallen Civil War soldiers with fresh spring flowers that were in full bloom across the country.
What high military honor is awarded to individuals who have been wounded or lost their lives in service to their country?
The Purple Heart
Which esteemed medal for valor was first created during the Civil War?
The Medal of Honor
What date in May was Memorial Day originally observed?
May 30
Where is the largest Memorial Day parade held each year? (United States)
Washington, D.C.
What sporting event is traditionally held on Memorial Day weekend?
The Indianapolis 500
What village in the state of New York is considered the official birthplace of Memorial Day?
The village of Waterloo in New York is recognized as the official birthplace of Memorial Day.
Who is the only woman to ever be awarded the Medal of Honor?
Dr. Mary Edwards Walker remains the only woman in U.S. history to receive the Medal of Honor. A trailblazing Civil War surgeon, abolitionist, and prisoner of war, she was awarded the prestigious decoration by President Andrew Johnson in 1865
What are the branches of the U.S. military?
The six branches of the U.S. military are the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard.
Which historical monument was dedicated on Memorial Day in 1922?
The Lincoln Memorial
The annual biker rally in Washington, D.C., each Memorial Day is called what?
The massive Memorial Day weekend motorcycle rally in Washington, D.C., is currently known as Rolling to Remember.
Previously, this iconic demonstration run was historically famous as the Rolling Thunder rally. After the original Rolling Thunder Inc. ended their national D.C. event in 2019, the veteran-focused nonprofit AMVETS stepped in to host the continuing ride under the new "Rolling to Remember" banner
What is the official song of the U.S. Army?
The official song of the United States Army is "The Army Goes Rolling Along". It is commonly referred to simply as "The Army Song" and is traditionally played at the conclusion of every Army ceremony
How should the American flag be flown on Memorial Day?
It should be raised to half-staff from sunrise until noon, then displayed at full staff from noon to sunset
Where is Arlington National Cemetery located
Arlington, Virginia
The "America the Beautiful" is based on the poem "Pikes Peak" written by who?
Katharine Lee Bates
During a national commemoration held annually on Memorial Day, a wreath is placed on what significant memorial?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier