First observed on May 30, 1868, Memorial Day commemorated the sacrifices of those who lost their lives during the Civil War. For nearly a century, Memorial Day was known as Decoration Day and expanded beyond its original audience to include those who had fallen in other US conflicts. Then In 1971, Memorial Day became a nationally recognized holiday. This weekend, in all services, GCC will honor the men and women who died while in military service for the United States of America.