Memorial Day is one of the most important days of remembrance in the annual calendar. It is the day in which we remember the veterans of war that fought in the First World War. Veterans are men, or women that were originally part of the American or Allied military at some point in their lives, on this day we remember the ones who were part of this war, whether they are dead, or alive.

World War 1, or as it is often referred to "The Great War" was fought for 4 years between the Allied troops, and Germany. It lasted for approximately 4 years between 1914 and 1918. It was a long and gruesome battle, and many lives were lost. The ending of the war, or the peace agreement was reached at 11a.m, November 11, 1918. This date is extremely significant, and to this day remains one of the most important days in modern history. It fell on the 11th hour, of the 11 day, of the 11th month. This was the beginning of the history of Memorial Day.

780980_f120

The day was not always named Memorial Day, it was originally called Armistice Day, but is still one of the only days of the year that is dedicated to the celebration of peace in the world, and the remembrance of the thousands of brave souls that were lost in the dark years between 1914 and 1918.

It is a day that is especially important in the United States, and the United Kingdom. These were the 2 countries that lost the most men during the terrible war. The large majority of the lives lost were men and women between the ages of 18 and 22, so they were extremely young men and women. This, of course, makes it all the more tragic.

It is customary in these countries that at 11a.m, 11 November every year to this day that a minutes silence is taken. This is carried out by whoever chooses to congregate at the various points where the names of the lost are shown. This silence is a time for friends, family members or just countrymen, and women to remember the sacrifice that the brave soldiers made for their country to maintain their way of life. This is the history of Memorial Day, a day that is paramount in the making of the world we live in today. Millions of people turn out every year to pay their respects to the lost soldiers.

Tagged with: • • •

Filed under: Memorial Day

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!