On April 6, 1917, the United States formally entered World War I by declaring war on Germany. By the summer of 1917, communities around the country had mobilized human and financial resources in support of the Allied war effort. In light of this year marking the 100th anniversary of American forces joining the fight in WW1, this Memorial Day takes on a special significance.

www.memorialdayfoundation.org

The muffled drum's sad roll has beat

The soldier's last tattoo; 

No more on Life's parade shall meet 

That brave and fallen few. 

On Fame's eternal camping-ground 

Their silent tents are spread, 

 And Glory guards, with solemn round,

 The bivouac of the dead.

Poem - Bivouac Of The Dead, 

by Theodore O'Hara

           Memorial Day, which is observed on the last Monday of May, commemorates the men and women who died while in the military service. 
It is a day dedicated for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of a wound sustained in battle.

            In observance of this day, many people visit cemeteries and memorials, and volunteers often place American flags on each grave site at national cemeteries. 

A National Moment of Remembrance takes place 

at 3:00 p.m. local time.