<Tr> <Th> 2020 date </Th> <Td> May 25 (2020 - 05 - 25) </Td> </Tr> <Tr> <Th> Frequency </Th> <Td> Annual </Td> </Tr> <P> Memorial Day or Decoration Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the people who died while serving in the country's armed forces . The holiday, which is currently observed every year on the last Monday of May, was held on May 28, 2018 . The holiday was held on May 30 from 1868 to 1970 . It marks the unofficial start of the summer vacation season, while Labor Day marks its end . </P> <P> Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service . Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries . </P>

What is the original purpose of memorial day