Memorial Day, formerly known as Decoration Day, commemorates the men and women who have died in service for our country.

It was begun to honor Union soldiers who died during the Civil War.

After the First World War, it was expanded to include all those who died in any war.

Since 1776, the United States has lost over 650,000 to war.

378 have been killed in Afghanistan.

2,464 have been killed in Iraq.

Today is their day.