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Most government offices and many businesses are closed today in observance of Memorial Day.  The day originally known as Decoration Day originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official holiday in 1971.  The holiday honoring fallen service members is often thought of as the unofficial start of summer and the summer driving season.

In addition to official Memorial Day ceremonies, many will visit friends and family, have backyard barbeques and establish various displays of patriotic sentiment.