Memorial Day commemorates the women and men who have died while in military service, and it will be observed this year on May 26, 2025, the last Monday in May as designated by Federal law (36 U.S.C. 116).

Image: As part of Memorial Day ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, President John F. Kennedy (at right, assisted by Sergeant Allen Eldredge) places a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Photographers and reporters observe. Arlington, Virginia, May 30, 1963. Source: John F. Kenney Presidential Library and Museum

“As we gather here this morning, I’m reminded of the words of one of our presidents, a veteran who himself rests not a 10-minute walk from here, President John F. Kennedy. In this very amphitheater, he once said, quote, “these quiet grounds, this cemetery and others like it all around the world, remind us with pride of our obligation and our opportunity.”
On a day set aside for Americans to honor and remember those who perished while serving our country, our obligation and our opportunity are one and the same. Our obligation is to give voice to the fallen, honor them, and share their stories of sacrifice and heroism. Our opportunity is to use this day to inspire new generations to understand the freedom they have been given, to grasp how and why it is theirs, and to dedicate themselves to pass it on to generations unborn.
Reflect, for a moment, on the way our nation’s flag is flown on Memorial Day. First it is hoisted briskly to the top, with the same clarity of purpose we see in all those who step forward to join our all-volunteer force. Then it is solemnly, soberly lowered to half-staff, a tribute to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
But it doesn’t stay there. At noon, it is raised back toward the sky – signaling our will to recover after tragedy, and symbolizing the great strength and resilience that characterizes not only our nation, but also those who defend it, and their families.”

Begun in the late 1860s and originally referred to as Decoration Day, spring flowers were distributed at graves to honor those fallen in the Civil War. By the end of the 19th century, ceremonies were being held in cities across the country. In 1966, the Federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day. (Source: The Origins of Memorial Day, Department of Veterans Affairs)

It wasn't until 1971 that Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, establishing Memorial Day as a Federal holiday and moving its observance to the last Monday in May.

Public Law 106-579, signed into law December 28, 2000, created the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance, and it designated 3:00 p.m. (local time) on Memorial Day each year as the ‘‘National Moment of Remembrance." At this time, all Americans are encouraged to pause wherever they are for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation.

On Memorial Day, presidents continue to commemorate those who have died in service to the country by visiting Arlington National Cemetery and speaking to the nation. Search our site to read Memorial Day remarks from other presidents at Arlington National Cemetery in the Compilation of Presidential Documents and Public Papers of the Presidents collections.

While Memorial Day holds a special significance, honoring the memory of fallen heroes and supporting their families and veterans should be a year-round commitment. Many organizations and individuals dedicate themselves to assisting veterans and their families, ensuring that the sacrifices made by those who served are never forgotten. As we gather with loved ones, let us take a moment to express our gratitude to the selflessness and unwavering dedication of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. May their memory forever inspire us to strive for a better world.

Related Resources

• Tour the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier online.
• Check out the Memorial Day proceedings of the Arlington National Cemetery on their website.
• Learn more about American memorials with the American Battle Monuments Commission.

About Featured Content Articles - This series of articles aims to highlight content available in GovInfo related to various national observances, commemorations, anniversaries and more. See more featured content articles.