Memorial Day may be seen as the unofficial start of summer, but it holds a much deeper meaning.

 

It is a day set aside each year to honor and remember the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

 

This solemn holiday became a federal observance in 1971 and is celebrated on the last Monday in May each year.

 

Across the United States, people observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials, attending parades, and gathering with family and friends to reflect on and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

 

Fall River will host several Memorial Day events and ceremonies to honor veterans and fallen service members. Events began Friday, May 15, with the Civil War Monument Ceremony at Oak Grove Cemetery. The Fall River Flags of Freedom grave-flagging program will run May 16-24 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Cemetery, Notre Dame Cemetery, and St. Patrick’s Cemetery. The Washing of the Fall River Vietnam Memorial Wall will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, May 21, at Veterans Memorial Bicentennial Park.

 

See the list of events at heraldnews.com.