Memorial Day 2024

Memorial Day commemorates the women and men who have died while in military service, and it will be observed this year on May 27, 2024, the last Monday in May as designated by Federal law (36 U.S.C. 116).

Memorial Mission – Navy Petty Officers 2nd Class Robert Harley, left, Justin Knight, front right, and Tania Banks place flags at a cemetery in Jacksonville, Fla., May 25, 2023, in preparation for Memorial Day. (Source: Department of Defense )

“This is always a day where pain and pride are mixed together. To all those who are mourning the loss of a service member—including America's Gold Star Families—we see you and grieve with you. And we know that on this day especially, the pain of their absence can feel overwhelming. But for so many of you, that pain is wrapped around the knowledge that your loved one was part of something bigger than any of us; that they chose a life of mission and purpose; and that they dared all, risked all, and gave all to preserve and defend an idea unlike any other in human history: the United States of America.

These brave service members are not only the heart and soul of our country—they are the very spine. Today—and every day—we remember their service and ultimate sacrifice to our Nation. We reflect on our sacred and enduring vow to care for their families. And together, as we pause and pray, we pledge to continue defending freedom and democracy in their honor. May God bless our fallen heroes, and may God protect our troops.”

Begun in the late 1860s 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 )

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 Presidential 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 for 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 Procedings of the Arlington National Cemetery on their website.
• Learn more about American memorials with the American Battle Monuments Commission.