Question 1: Why do we celebrate Memorial Day?
- To honor military personnel who died in service
- To commemorate the Civil War
- To honor the flag
Correct Answer: To honor military personnel who died in service
Fact: Memorial Day is an occasion to honor and remember members of the US armed forces who lost their lives during service to the nation. Taking place on the last Monday in May, the day is marked with flag-raising ceremonies and parades.
Question 2: What was Memorial Day formerly named?
- Tribute Day
- Decoration Day
- Celebration Day
Correct Answer: Decoration Day
Fact: ‘Decoration Day,’ as it was called, saw families and friends place flowers and wreaths on the graves of fallen soldiers. After WWI, it became an occasion to honor those who died in all US wars and the name ‘Memorial Day’ was more commonly used. In 1968, Congress passed legislation that standardized the holiday as Memorial Day and changed its observance from May 30 to the last Monday in May.
Question 3: Which annual car race is held on Memorial Day weekend?
- Daytona 500
- Indianapolis 500
- Grand Prix of Long Beach
Correct Answer: Indianapolis 500
Fact: The first Indy 500 took place on May 30, 1911, which was Memorial Day–then known as Decoration Day. Since then, the race has been scheduled on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend as a tribute to its historical roots. It was only in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, that the race was held in August.