05/22/2026
Friday, May 22, 2026, is the 142nd day of the year. It falls on the Friday leading into the US Memorial Day weekend and marks the highly anticipated theatrical release of The Mandalorian & Grogu.
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring and mourning the U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the Armed Forces. Observed annually on the last Monday of May, it is a solemn day of remembrance rather than a celebration of all who served.
History and Origins Decoration Day: Originally known as "Decoration Day," the holiday began in the years following the Civil War. It was established as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags.1868 Proclamation: The first widespread national observance was on May 30,
1868, proclaimed by General John A. Logan to commemorate the sacrifices of Union soldiers. After World War I, the day was expanded to honor all American service members who died in any war. Federal Holiday: It was officially declared a federal holiday by an act of Congress in 1971.
Memorials and Cemeteries: Americans visit cemeteries and memorials to pay their respects. Volunteers and families place American flags on the graves of the fallen, notably at sites like Arlington National Cemetery.
National Moment of Remembrance: At 3:00 p.m. local time, a National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause for a minute of silence to reflect on the ultimate sacrifices made by military personnel.
Flag Protocol: On Memorial Day morning, the American flag should be flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to the top of the staff.
Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day: Memorial Day is specifically for honoring those who died while serving in the military. In contrast, Veterans Day (observed on November 11) is a celebration and thank-you to all living and deceased U.S. military veterans.
