Memorial Day History
Memorial Day, a federal holiday held the last Monday in May, is the nation's foremost annual day to mourn and honor its deceased service men and women. Originally called Decoration Day, it was formalized by a "Memorial Day Order" issued by Grand Army of the Republic Commander-in-Chief John A. Logan in 1868. The modern proclamation calls on Americans "to observe Memorial Day by praying, according to their individual religious faith, for permanent peace."
Decoration Day postcard, ca. 1910. (NCA History Collection)
In The News
Video: Placing Headstones on Unmarked Graves
Watch how researchers help preserve the legacy of Veterans buried in unmarked graves with VA-provided headstones and markers.
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COVID-19 Alert
All Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) national cemeteries remain open and continue to provide interment services for Veterans and eligible dependents.
VA national cemeteries have adapted operational procedures throughout the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to prevent the spread of the virus based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance.
John M. Runkle, Jr.
US Army, 1LT
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National Cemetery Administration
Attn: General Inquiries
810 Vermont Avenue
Washington, DC 20420
MyVA411 main information line:
800-698-2411