Yasmin Amoo and Lynece Wilson | On 18, May 2017

We all enjoy the day off and the barbecues, but what is the origin of this day that acts as the unofficial kickoff to summer?

Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day, and was invented to serve as a day of remembrance for those who died in service of the United States of America. Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966.

On May 29, not everyone is celebrating with a pool party. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day, paying their respects.

Though the day is meant to memorialize those lost, many people see Memorial Day weekend as an opportunity to go on a short vacation or visit family or friends, and we Hawks are no exception.

Senior Kimora Street stated, “It’s a very beautiful day where everyone just comes together and honor our loved ones and also give respect to the ones who fought for us.”

“I’m going down the shore to celebrate with friends and family,” Street continued.

Street and her family are among many who will heat up the grill or head to the beach. “It is important to share time with family and friends, but we should also be sure to take time to remember the true meaning of this day,” said senior Lynece Wilson.