<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>
what is the original purpose of memorial day
remembering the people who died while serving in the country 's armed forces