Assembly Resolution No. 598

BY: M. of A. Griffin

COMMEMORATING May 26, 2025, as Memorial Day

WHEREAS, Memorial Day, first observed as Decoration Day on May 30,
1868, was an occasion to decorate the graves of Civil War soldiers; and

WHEREAS, After World War I, Decoration Day was expanded to honor
service members who were killed in all our Nation's wars; and

WHEREAS, After World War II, Decoration Day became known as Memorial
Day, and in 1971, the United States Congress established Memorial Day as
a federal holiday to be observed on the last Monday in May; and

WHEREAS, In 1873, New York State officially recognized Memorial Day,
becoming the first state to take such action; and

WHEREAS, In the year 2000, the United States Congress established
3:00 PM as the National Moment of Silence each Memorial Day; and

WHEREAS, It is important to reflect upon the contributions and
sacrifices the men and women of our armed forces have made, upholding
the principles of democracy and liberty while in service to our State
and Nation; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate Memorial Day, May 26, 2025, fully confident that such
commemoration clearly depicts the important reason for Memorial Day and
encourages all residents of the State of New York to honor those men and
women who have lost their lives while serving to protect our Nation and
State.