On the last Monday in May, the United States observes a federal holiday to honor those who have given their lives in sacrifice for their country. We call this Memorial Day. Federal institutions, banks and schools observe this holiday, in addition to most non-retail businesses. While for many the holiday has simply become a three-weekend that kicks off the summer season, the original observance had a much more solemn intent.

In memory of those who lost their lives serving in military service, appropriate Memorial Day observances include taking flowers or small flags to cemeteries and placing them on the graves of fallen heroes, visiting memorials, flying the U.S. flag and thanking soldiers and others who serve in the military. The country preserves a national moment of remembrance at 3:00 p.m. from Washington D.C.

Although people consider Memorial Day a patriotic holiday, they often use the day off to get together in backyards and parks for picnics and cookouts, baseball games and camaraderie to welcome the warm weather and usher in the summer season.