May 30: A Day of Remembrance
Ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery have been an important part of America’s Memorial Day observance since March 1921, when Congress provided for the burial of an unidentified American soldier from World War I in that place of honor. Soldiers from World War II, Korean and Vietnam wars are also interred at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Memorial Day, which began in 1868 as Decoration Day, is set aside to remember those who have died in the service of their country. Celebrated on May 30 for the first 100 years, Memorial Day was officially changed to the last Monday in May in 1968.
Photo: Photographer CWO4 SETH ROSSMAN, USN, Department of Defense
