Memorializing Memorial Day

While Memorial Day is often known (unofficially, of course) as the kick-off to summer, it is an official U.S. Federal holiday that recognizes those who have died in service to our country. It began following the Civil War, but has since been extended to include all Americans who died serving in the military.

While in many areas of the country, families of the service men and women decorate graves, in Manhattan, that is not quite as easy. But there are still tributes to those who have died while serving their country, often found in parks or on plaques on buildings. You can read about the Doughboy Statue located in Abingdon Square in this former Off the Grid post. Or, check out this past post which features the stories about the naming of McCarthy Square and the Seravalli Playground.