How important is Memorial Day?

Often seen as the unofficial beginning of summer and a convenient occasion for travel and get-togethers, the holiday also has a more significant meaning for many Americans—often a deeply personal one.

Forty-six percent (46%) see Memorial Day as one of the most important holidays. Only 5% say it's one of the least important; 47% say it's somewhere in between.

Fifty-seven percent (57%) of Americans say they will do something special this weekend to honor those who gave their lives for this country.

Two fifths of respondents—more men (51%) than women (33%)—report having a friend or family member who has given his life in the service of this country. Blacks and those 50 and older are more likely than whites and those younger than 50 to know someone who died in military service.

Forty-five percent (45%) of all Americans have a friend or family member currently serving in Iraq. The percentage is highest among those between 18 and 39, blacks, and those who know someone who has died serving the country.

Most Americans—80%—have a favorable view of the military. Eleven percent (11%) have an unfavorable view; 9% are Not Sure. Seventy-four percent (74%) of those 18 to 29 view the militarily favorably; 20% view it unfavorably, the highest percentage of any group to do so.

Eighteen percent (18%) report having served in the military; 35% of men have done so, 4% of women.

Memorial Day was first officially celebrated on May 30, 1868 to honor those who died in the Civil War. Due to the divisions that remained in the nation at that time, Southern States did not celebrate the holiday until after World War I. Following that "War to end all wars", the observance was changed to recognize soldiers who had given their life in any war.

In 1971, Congress established the last Monday in May as Memorial Day to ensure a three-day weekend. This may have added to the changing focus of the holiday from honoring fallen servicemen and women to the "unofficial beginning of summer."