Memorial Day

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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.

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.

Memorial Day Honor Wall

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
Ad Astra Per Aspera. Thank You for being Semper Fidelis. Love You, Always. Stephanie Louise Daggett-Velez. Honoring Our Heroes.
Stephanie Louise D.
Roseville, CA
Thank you and your family for making the ultimate sacrifice
Zoe J.
Syracuse, UT
As we come together to commemorate this day, let us unite in remembrance and appreciation for the sacrifices of our fallen heroes. Their legacy lives on in our hearts and in the fabric of our nation. Thank you to all who have served, and may we always honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
Umar T.
Dublin, OH
From one retired veteran to the many brave men and women that gave their lives to defend our nation and freedom.. thank you and rest in peace
Samuel M.
North Las Vegas, NV
Freedom isnt free. Thank You to all our Service members for your Service & to those who gave the Ultimate Sacrifice. Never Forget ❤ ❤
Petra .
In honor of my good friend James R. Dragoti who died in Vietnam, November, 1965. A true American hero.
Patrick L.
Bel Air, MD
Remembering your courage in Viet Nam during the Tet Offensive when you were severely injured and thus earning you the Bronze Star with "V" for Valor and the Purple Heart.
John T.
Manassas, VA
Remembering my late husband, Enos D. Evans, we miss you so much!!!
Melinda E.
Marblehead, MA

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.

BSF-Memorial-Day-evergreen

Memorial Day is a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of American military personnel who have given their lives in service to their country.

Blue Star Families Memorial Day Events

Dayton Chapter

West Chester Memorial Day Parade 2025
May 26, 2025 9:00 AM–12:00 PM ET

West Chester, Ohio - Cincinnati Dayton Road to Brookside Cemetery

National Capital Region Chapter

National Memorial Day Concert at the Capitol
May 25, 2025 6:00 PM–10:00 PM ET

Washington D.C. Capitol

Tampa Bay Chapter

Memorial Day Ceremony
May 26, 2025 11:00 AM ET

American Legion USS Tampa Post #53810 W. Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33609