Memorial Day is a time of remembrance, a day to honor and reflect on the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces who gave their lives in service to the United States. Over the years, Memorial Day has grown to be both a solemn commemoration and a celebration of the freedoms secured by those sacrifices. From its origins to modern-day observances, here’s a closer look at Memorial Day through the lens of numbers.

1868 The Year Of Establishment  

Memorial Day, initially called Decoration Day, was officially established in 1868 following the Civil War, which claimed the lives of over 620,000 Americans. The goal was to honor the fallen soldiers by decorating their graves with flowers.

1971 Declared A Federal Holiday  

While Memorial Day traditions existed for decades, it wasn’t until 1971 that Congress officially declared it a federal holiday, observed on the last Monday of May each year.

Millions Gather  

An estimated 36 million Americans travel over the Memorial Day weekend each year, according to AAA, making it one of the busiest travel holidays in the country.

1.3 Million Lives Lost  

Since the American Revolution, approximately 1.3 million U.S. service members have died in military conflicts, defending the nation’s ideals and freedoms.

405,399 World War II Deaths  

World War II remains the deadliest conflict involving U.S. armed forces, with 405,399 American servicemen and women losing their lives. They served across Europe, North Africa, and the Pacific, fighting for the freedom of others around the world.

58,220 Vietnam War Deaths  

The Vietnam War saw the loss of 58,220 American lives. Today, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., honors each person with their name etched in stone. Visitors leave over 100,000 items annually as tributes at the memorial.

260,000 Graves At Arlington

Each year, flags are placed at over 260,000 gravestones in Arlington National Cemetery. This moving tradition is carried out by service members from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, also known as “The Old Guard.”

1,500 Parades Nationwide  

On Memorial Day, communities across the nation host an estimated 1,500 parades to honor and remember the armed forces. The largest and oldest of these parades takes place in New York City and has roots dating back to 1869.

$1.5 Billion Spent On Food  

Grilled food is an integral part of Memorial Day for many Americans. With millions of backyard barbecues held annually, it’s no surprise that Americans spend an estimated $1.5 billion on food for the weekend.

60 Percent Plan Cookouts  

A National Retail Federation survey shows that approximately 60 percent of Americans celebrate Memorial Day with a cookout, picnic, or barbecue.

Reflecting On The True Meaning Of Memorial Day

While Memorial Day is often associated with long weekends and summer celebrations, it’s important not to lose sight of its true purpose. It’s a day of gratitude, reflection, and unity. It’s a reminder of the sacrifices made by brave individuals for the sake of freedom, and a time to honor those who laid down their lives for something greater than themselves.