On May 5, 1866, people in Waterloo, New York, honored those who died in the Civil War. The people closed businesses for the day and decorated soldier's graves with flowers. This was the beginning of the holiday known as Memorial Day or Decoration Day. On this day Americans remember those who gave their lives for their country. At Arlington National Cemetry a wreath is placed on the Tomb of the Unknowns.  Four unknown American soldiers who were killed in war are buried there.  Today most states observed Memorial Day on the last Monday in May. Many Southern states also have their own days to honor Southern soldiers who died in the Civil War. This holiday is called Confederate Memorial day or Confederate Heros Day.