Rock of Ages Blog

GLOBAL WAR ON TERROR | RANDOLPH CENTER, VT | R/S BLUE GRAY™ GRANITE

Civic memorials are enduring symbols of collective memory, courage, and sacrifice in the fabric of American society. These monuments and the diverse array of military holidays punctuating our calendar are not merely observances; they are threads woven into the tapestry of our national identity. They evoke a profound pride and emotional attachment to our nation’s history, reminding us of the sacrifices made for the freedoms we enjoy.  

From Veteran’s Day to Gold Star Mother’s & Families Day, these moments of reflection celebrate different facets that have shaped the nation’s history and the individuals who shaped it. This exploration into the significance of civic memorials and military holidays seeks to illuminate their profound meanings and the vital role local monuments play in fostering a spirit of unity, remembrance, and community healing in our communities.

Military Holidays And The People They Honor

Veteran’s Day: A Universal Tribute 

Once celebrated as Armistice Day to honor members of the armed forces and commemorate the end of World War I, its evolution into Veteran’s Day has broadened its scope to honor all who have served in the armed forces, reflecting our nation’s respect and gratitude for their service.

Every year, Arlington National Cemetery commemorates Veterans Day with the Veterans Day National Ceremony. This ceremony consists of laying a wreath upon the Tomb of the Unknowns and is followed by a parade of colors by Veterans within the Memorial Amphitheater.

WAKEFIELD WAR MEMORIAL | WAKEFIELD, MA | WOODLAWN MEMORIALS |  R/S BLUE GRAY™ GRANITE

Memorial Day: Honoring the Fallen

Memorial Day is a collective tribute, a solemn reminder of the ultimate sacrifice countless men and women made in military service. This was initially referred to as Decoration Day to reflect the practice of decorating soldiers’ graves with flowers. While it began as a way to honor soldiers who lost their lives in the Civil War, it has evolved to commemorate all American military personnel who have fallen in active service, uniting us in remembrance.

As this is a day of “National Mourning,” many people attend religious services, visit memorials, or participate in the annual moment of silence that occurs at 03:00 PM local time, a profound pause that echoes our respect and gratitude.

NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL | WASHINGTON, D.C. 

Independence Day: A Celebration of Freedom

Independence Day, often known as the ‘Fourth of July,’ is not just a day of liberation and independence but a testament to the bravery and courage of those who fought to establish a nation free from the British Government. It’s a patriotic celebration that embodies the spirit of liberation, marking the day the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Independence Day was a time of joy and excitement, where people would let loose with a variety of festivities such as concerts, bonfires, parades, and the firing of cannons and muskets. These celebrations were typically accompanied by reading the Declaration of Independence, adding to the festive spirit. 

After the Revolutionary War, the enthusiasm for Independence Day celebrations continued. However, with the rise of the new nation’s political leaders, these parties began holding separate Fourth of July celebrations. This evolution in celebrations, from cannons and muskets to the firework displays we now associate with this holiday, reflects the enduring spirit of this patriotic day.

Gold Star Mother’s & Families Day

From its humble beginnings as a black armband with a gold star, Memorial Day has evolved into a poignant symbol of remembrance. Originally, these armbands were worn by families of fallen service members during World War I. The stars, later displayed on banners, symbolized the absence of a loved one at the dinner table. A blue star denoted active service, while a gold star represented the ultimate sacrifice. This symbol would later transform into a pin featuring a gold star on a purple background adorned with laurel leaves, a tribute to the fallen.

Post-World War II, Congress recognized the importance of honoring the fallen and their families. They created a pin modeled after the banners, featuring a gold star on a purple background adorned with laurel leaves. This pin, a powerful symbol of sacrifice, is presented to the deceased's immediate family as a testament to their loved one's service and sacrifice.

In the present day this holiday is punctuated with ceremonies and community events to bring people together to honor the mothers and families of those service members and to remember those who have fallen.

GOLD STAR FAMILIES MEMORIAL MONUMENT | BOWLING GREEN, OHIO | R/S MIDNIGHT BLACK™ GRANITE

Patriot’s Day: Recognizing Our Nation’s Resilience 

National Day of Service and Remembrance, or Patriot Day, is a time to commemorate the tragic events of September 11, 2001. It stands as a testament to the nation’s resilience and unity in the face of immense loss. Punctuated by moments of silence, flags at half-staff, and numerous other ceremonies as it honors the nearly 3,000 lives lost and highlights the enduring spirit of the American people.

SUSSEX COUNTY 9/11 MEMORIAL | SUSSEX COUNTY, NEW JERSEY | NEWTON MEMORIAL ART COMPANY |  R/S BLUE GRAY™ GRANITE

FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP 9/11 MEMORIAL | FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NEW JERSEY | R/S BLACK MIST™ GRANITE

Remembrance Day: A Global Memorial 

While often associated with Commonwealth nations, Remembrance Day is tied to another holiday in the U.S., Armistice Day. This day is a universal reminder of the sacrifices made in the line of duty, underscoring the worldwide cost of conflict and the enduring value of peace.

Now millions worldwide pause at 11 AM on the 11th day of the 11th month to remember those who have given their lives for their country. This day marks the anniversary of the Armistice of World War I, also known as the “war to end all wars,” with up to 13 million deaths. Initially, this day was established to commemorate the huge loss of life in World War 1, but it has since come to include people who have died in all wars since, including World War II, the Falklands War, Iraq, and Afghanistan. 

The first moment of silence for Remembrance Day was issued by King George V and held one year after the end of World War I. He requested that “the thoughts of everyone may be concentrated on the reverent remembrance of the glorious dead.”

In the U.K., members of the Royal Family lay wreaths at the Cenotaph and attend memorial services with politicians, the armed forces, and communities.

Point of Interest: Red Poppies were one of the first signs of life to return to the devastated lands that had become battlefields in World War I. This is why they have become a symbol of the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers who fought there. Red Poppies are still used today when remembering the lives lost.

WAINFLEET TOWNSHIP WAR MEMORIAL | WAINFLEET TOWNSHIP, ONTARIO | KIRKPATRICK STONEWORKS |  R/S BLUE GRAY™ GRANITE

Armed Forces Day 

Established in 1949, Armed Forces Day consolidates the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days into one unified celebration. This shift was initiated due to the unification of the Armed Forces, which moved to be under one department—the Department of Defense—and marks the first combined demonstration by America’s defense team.

While many military holidays are a way of honoring the fallen and expressing the nation’s unending gratitude to those who have served, this holiday is for those whose history is still being written. 

The longest-running Armed Forces Day parade in the United States occurs yearly in Bremerton, Washington. It is part of the Bremerton Armed Forces Day Festival and has attracted between 25,000 and 40,000 spectators and participants every year.

NIAGARA VETERANS CIVIC WAR MEMORIAL | NIAGARA, NY | STONE ART MEMORIAL CO. INC. | R/S BLACK MIST GRANITE™ & R/S BLUE GRAY™ GRANITE

ARMED FORCES MEMORIAL | WALPOLE, NEW HAMPSHIRE | R/S BLUE GRAY™ GRANITE

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day: A Day of Reflection 

December 7th marks the anniversary and a solemn tribute to the lives lost in the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. This day urges us to reflect on the impact of this event on American involvement in World War II. It honors the bravery of the American spirit in the face of adversity.

Every year for the past 35 years, a wreath-laying ceremony has been held on December 7th by Submarine Veterans of WWII at the Sacramento Base to remember this day. In addition, ceremonies occur at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, and USS Utah.

PEARL HARBOR MEMORIAL | WILLIAM V. SIPPLE & SONS MEMORIALS | R/S BLUE GRAY™ GRANITE

Veterans of Foreign Wars Day: Honor Without Borders

For American service members who have bravely served in foreign conflicts, this is a day to honor their contributions. It is a testament to the global reach of American courage and a poignant reminder of the importance of supporting these veterans who have fought on international fronts.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars, or V.F.W., holds a significant place in history. Established in 1899 by 13 veterans of the Spanish-American War and Philippine Insurrection, it aimed to encourage camaraderie among U.S. veterans of foreign conflicts. 

Simultaneously, the holiday was created as a testament to the historic establishment of what would soon become one of the longest and most established organizations of war veterans. Its significance is not confined to its members at posts across the nation but resonates globally and is celebrated by people worldwide. 

WESTERN NEW YORK HISPANIC AMERICAN VETERANS MEMORIAL | BUFFALO, NEW YORK |  STONE ART MEMORIAL CO. LLC. | BLACK MIST™ GRANITE & BLUE GRAY™ GRANITE

National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day: Remembering the “Forgotten War” 

July 27th, the anniversary of the Korean War Armistice Agreement, is a time to honor the sacrifices of 5.7 million Veterans who served in what is often called “The Forgotten War.” This agreement ended three years of fighting on Korean lands and now acknowledges the bravery of all those who served, fought, and died during this war.

This relatively new holiday is commemorated by receptions at Capitol Hill, candle lighting, performances, and more.

KOREAN WAR MEMORIAL | LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY |  MULDOON MEMORIALS | R/S BLUE GRAY™ GRANITE

D-Day: Honoring a Turning Point Against Tyranny 

June 6th commemorates one of World War II’s most significant military operations, the D-Day landings. It’s a day to honor the bravery of Allied forces whose landing in Normandy was a pivotal moment in the war against tyranny.

This day is commemorated every year at the Normandy American Cemetery, but it isn’t just a local affair. All across Normandy, ceremonies are held to pay tribute to all who fought in the Battle of Normandy. That said, every five years, it is commemorated with a much larger display. For example, on the 75th anniversary, the celebrations included military displays, reenactments, parades, fireworks, and more.

Vietnam Veterans Day: For Service and Sacrifice 

This day is an acknowledgment of the complexities of service in the Vietnam War and the importance of recognizing the courage and sacrifices made, often in the face of challenging homecoming experiences. It also marks the anniversary of the day the last U.S. combat troops left Vietnam.

Since the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act was signed, Vietnam War Veterans Day has been commemorated with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

5TH MARINE VETERANS MEMORIAL | CAMP PENDLETON, CA |  R/S BLUE GRAY™ GRANITE & R/S AMERICAN BLACK™ GRANITE

Wreaths Across America Day: An Act of Remembrance

In December, a powerful act of remembrance takes place as wreaths are laid at Arlington National Cemetery and over 1,200 locations across the nation and abroad. This honors those who have served and reminds future generations of the sacrifices made for freedom. 

Flag Day: Celebrating Our National Symbol 

June 14th commemorates the adoption of the United States flag and celebrates American history and the ideals represented by the flag, including independence, unity, and democracy.

The United States also celebrates the U.S. Army's birthday on this date, as this is when Congress adopted the American Continental Army.

Leading up to Flag Day, U.S. presidents call upon citizens to display the United States flag during the week. Communities nationwide hold annual parades, picnics, and other events.

SARATOGA COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL  | SCHUYLERVILLE, NEW YORK |  R/S BLACK MIST™ GRANITE 

Local Monuments and Community Celebrations

Nationwide, monuments symbolize remembrance and respect for those who have served and the countless sacrifices made throughout history. These sites are focal points as historical reminders and places for community gatherings, such as parades, wreath-laying ceremonies, and flag-raising events, which not only honor the past but also unite us in our shared heritage and communal values.

Civic memorials and military holidays are vital in preserving our collective memory and honoring the sacrifices of those who served for the freedom of the United States and its allies. They serve as a communal focal point and a place to remember and express gratitude with commemorations and celebrations. In turn, these gatherings reinforce a feeling of patriotism for our country.

Due to the immense importance of these monuments, granite has been the go-to for monuments nationwide. Its inherent strength and ability to withstand the test of time make granite ideal for monuments, mirroring the resilient patriotism and timeless values of the heroes and histories they honor. 

Get Involved with History

Now that you’ve had a chance to learn the nuances of different military holidays, why not get out there and experience the feeling of unity and passion for the country and express your gratitude to those who have served?

Don’t have a local memorial to attend? Contact Rock of Ages today and start the journey of bringing people together by establishing a civic monument near you.