U.S. Mission Closed for Memorial Day

May 22, 2009

Memorial Day, or Decoration Day, began after the American Civil War (1861-1865) when communities and veterans organizations decorated the graves of soldiers killed in that war. By the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held on May 30. It was not until after World War I, however, that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars.

In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, though it is still often called Decoration Day. It was then also placed on the last Monday in May.

The U.S. Mission in Nepal will be closed on Monday, May 25, to celebrate Memorial Day, a national holiday in the United States. The Chancery, USAID, and the Consular and Public Affairs Sections are among the components of the Mission that are located at the Embassy compound in Maharajgunj.