One of the earliest Memorial Day observances occurred on May 1, 1865. Organized by freed slaves and white missionaries.

Not only is Memorial Day celebrated in May, but several other holidays that honor those in the military as well.

Before it was officially known as Memorial Day, the holiday was widely referred to as Decoration Day. Memorial Day became an official federal holiday in 1971, following the passage of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1968, which looked to provide more consistent three-day weekends for federal employees.

Many organizations across the state will honor fallen service members on Memorial Day. Check out this list to find events happening near you.

Several cities throughout Hampton Roads will honor the sacrifice of the nation’s service members with Memorial Day events on Monday. Here’s how government services will be impacted by the holiday. Mayor’s Commission on Veterans Affairs will host its annual Memorial Day ceremony at 11 a.m. Monday in front of City Hall.

Events this Memorial Day honoring fallen service members include parades, concerts, flag placements and the traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall.

In observance of Memorial Day this weekend, counties across Central Florida are hosting remembrance ceremonies and events. Here are a few Memorial Day events in your area.Memorial Day events in Brevard CountyMemorial Day Tribute- 20th Year Tribute Take time to honor the fallen veterans of war with a parade,

According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, the U.S. flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon on Memorial Day to signify a period of mourning. After noon, the flag should be raised to full-staff until sunset.