The history of Memorial Day

de bene esse: literally, of well-being, morally acceptable but subject to future validation or exception

The history of Memorial Day, explained: http://s.si.edu/lmXg6

(via National Museum of American History)

Colonial Williamsburg

"To the honor of the soldiers of the American Revolution who are buried in this graveyard. Their names are unknown, their heroism is immortal."

Over 500,000 Latinos served in WWII. General MacArthur described the 158th Regimental Combat Team, a large % of which were Latino and Native American, "the greatest fighting combat team ever deployed in battle." We honor them and all of our Latinos and Latinas in service.

On Memorial Day weekend, LIFE.com offers a series of quiet, reflective photos of Arlington National Cemetery by LIFE magazine's George Silk. http://ti.me/12CdwsW

(George Silk—Time & Life Pictures/Getty Images)