Sunday 12 2024 Mother's Day serves as an opportunity to honor mothers and mother figures for their endless love, support, and contributions to our society. This day not only to celebrate motherhood, but also maternal bonds, the influence of mothers in the society, and moms' unwavering dedication to their children and families.
Mother's Day in America has its roots traced back to the 19th century, when Ann Reeves Jarvis initiated Mothers' Day Work Clubs to improve sanitary conditions and lower infant mortality rates. However, it was her daughter, Anna Jarvis, who fought tirelessly to make it a recognized holiday in the early 20th century. Today, the celebrations on Mother's Day vary across America, but a common feature united all - the portrayal of immense love and gratitude towards the nurturing figure in one's life.
In the United States, Mother's Day is typically observed by presenting mothers with gifts, such as flowers and cards, and treating them to a special meal or a day of leisure, symbolic of the appreciation and love the society has towards them. The day is also often marked by charity events and community-based activities aimed at honoring mothers. Mother's Day is not fixed to a particular date in America but falls on the second Sunday in May, making it a day that varies from year to year.
Armed Forces Day
Saturday 18 2024 Armed Forces Day is a day to recognize those who actively serve in the Armed Forces. In 1947, the Armed Forces of the US were united under one department which was renamed the Department of Defense in 1949. President Harry S. Truman supported the creation of a day for the nation to unite in support and recognition of our military members and their families. On August 31, 1949, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced that Armed Forces Day would take the place of other individual branch celebrations, and all branches of the military would be honored this single day. Armed Forces Day is observed annually on the third Saturday in May.
Memorial Day
Monday 27 2024 Memorial Day is dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who have sacrificed their lives in service to the country. The occasion serves to recognize the bravery and dedication of these individuals in all branches of the military, from the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, to the Air Force and Coast Guard. The observance is also significant for fostering shared values of patriotism, commitment and respect for the armed forces among all Americans.
The inception of Memorial Day dates back to the aftermath of the Civil War in the late 19th century as a means to honor the soldiers who fell on both sides of the conflict. Originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday gained official recognition at the national level in 1971. Memorial Day is an important part of American society and culture because it provides a moment of collective remembrance for the country’s fallen heroes. It's an opportunity for Americans to express their gratitude for the sacrifices made for the nation's freedom and security.
Memorial Day in the United States is marked by a variety of commemorative activities and traditions. These include visiting military cemeteries and memorials to lay flowers and flags, participating in parades, and observing a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps', a traditional bugle call played at military funerals. Many Americans also gather for family picnics and barbecues on this day, recognizing it as the unofficial start of the summer season. The Memorial Day National Moment of Remembrance, established by Congress, takes place at 3:00 pm local time. Memorial Day falls on the last Monday of May each year, providing a long weekend for these traditions and observances to take place.