Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials of soldiers who lost their lives protecting our freedoms. On Memorial Day the flag is raised briskly to the top of the staff and then solemnly lowered to the half-staff position, where it remains until noon. It is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day. At 3 p.m. local time, a national moment of remembrance takes place.
Memorial Day often marks the start of the summer vacation season. Families gather together for a long weekend marked by barbecuing, fireworks, and trips to the beach. This is an important time to remember food safety practices.