Memorial Day

Honor the Fallen this Memorial Day

On Memorial Day, we pause to reflect on the lives of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country and the families and friends they left behind. Their courage and commitment continue to inspire us, and their legacy is woven into the fabric of our nation, reminding us of the enduring strength and resilience of the military community.

Memorial Day Honor Wall

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Honor our fallen heroes by writing a letter of thanks and remembrance on our Memorial Day Honor Wall.

Let's keep their memory alive and their legacy of bravery shining bright.

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Memorial Day Honor Wall

In honor of my good friend James R. Dragoti who died in Vietnam, November, 1965. A true American hero.

Patrick L.

Bel Air, MD

My husband is retired Marine Corps special operations Veteran. He lost a lot of friends in his years in Afghanistan. Two men in particular he holds quite dear to his heart. Because I had to give my full name and email address, I’m not going to mention their names. I don’t want to ask my husband if it’s OK because it will just trigger things....

Kirsten H.

White Lake, NY

In memory of all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country, brothers and sisters in arms, families, and friends - we honor you today and always. Special mention of 1LT Thomas J Fiedlar, a USAF pilot who died in July 1965 after his aircraft engine caught fire over the Atlantic.

Rachel C.

Yelm, WA

I will never be able to convey the depth of gratitude I have for those who have sacrificed so much for my freedom or at least the illusion of it. Your deaths were not in vain and everyday I try to honor my country and serve them here in the United States in order to pay homage to you and your families. I will continue...

Tamara D.

Atlantic, IA

Thank you and your family for making the ultimate sacrifice

Zoe J.

Syracuse, UT

Today is remember all that fought and sacrificed for us to have what we have today. Because of the brave we have our freedom. I'm a very proud granddaughter, great niece and mom of the Army and Coast Guard.

Cynthia L.

Glendale Heights, IL

May we never forget SSgt Christopher Frost, KIA March 2008. You were the one of the best co-workers and friends anyone could ask for. Work still isn't the same without you all these years later, and I'm not sure I've ever recovered from the Style Guide incident. The annoying little brother figure I never knew I needed. We think about you all the time. Until...

Sheila R.

San Pedro, CA

During the war in Iraq, my spouse lost his best friend, Justin. They grew up together, decided to join together, and shared a love of country. We continue to honor Justin each and every day by never wavering in reliving our cherished memories. We tell our children about him, laugh and joke as we reflect on times spent together, and never forget why he chose...

Adriene E.

El Paso, TX

Remembering our dear friend, Major Vic Gronenthal, US Army. We miss your silly antics! We still think of you often.

Meghan W.

O'Fallon, IL

What is the significance of Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who have died while serving in the country's armed forces. It is observed on the last Monday of May each year.

Learn more about Memorial Day:

Origins and History of Memorial Day

Civil War Origins: Memorial Day originated in the years following the Civil War, a conflict that claimed more lives than any other conflict in U.S. history and necessitated the establishment of the country's first national cemeteries.

Decoration Day: It was originally known as Decoration Day, from the tradition of decorating graves with flowers, wreaths, and flags. The first widespread observance of Decoration Day was on May 30, 1868, after a proclamation by General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of Union Veterans.

Transition to Memorial Day: Over time, Decoration Day evolved to become Memorial Day, and it expanded to honor all Americans who died in military service, not just those from the Civil War. The name Memorial Day was first used in 1882 and became more common after World War II.

Modern Observance of Memorial Day

National Moment of Remembrance: In 2000, Congress established a National Moment of Remembrance, which asks Americans to pause for one minute at 3:00 PM local time on Memorial Day to reflect on the sacrifices of those who died in service to the nation.

Traditions: Common traditions include visiting cemeteries and memorials, holding family gatherings, and participating in parades. Volunteers often place American flags on graves of military personnel in national cemeteries.

Significance: Memorial Day serves as a time for Americans to reflect on the high cost of freedom and to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the country. It is distinct from Veterans Day, which honors all U.S. military Veterans, not just those who died in service.