Two Days

[dukealien]

Armistice Day in Australia is also Remembrance Day. The UK also has the two days very close together. America might be the exception in having a separate memorial day at another point in the year. Of course, there's Anzac day, which is perhaps the best known military holiday in these parts.

"as by dry way-sides yellow ribbons fade." is a nice touch, knowing that the two days in the US are in summer and autumn respectively.

US Memorial Day originated in 1866,  one year after the end of the US Civil War/War Between the States (Lee surrendered in April, remaining Confederate forces in the following months).  From what I've read, it was a spontaneous observance, people all over the country deciding to visit and decorate the war graves that Spring.