ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA – Today, members of the United States Semiquincentennial Commission recognized Memorial Day by paying tribute to the members of our military who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. As part of today’s commemoration, former U.S. Representative Joe Crowley (NY-14), a member of the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, honored U.S. veterans and members of the armed forces by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.
“On this Memorial Day, we pause to express our heartfelt gratitude and salute the brave members of our military who gave their lives to defend our freedoms,” said Rosie Rios, U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission Chair. “Not only is this day an opportunity to honor those who we have lost, but it also presents a meaningful reminder to recognize the families left behind who shoulder the burden of their loved one’s absence. Every day we must pay tribute to the enduring legacy of our fallen heroes by uplifting their family members, and reaffirming our commitment to the treasured values they fought courageously to protect.”
“Today, in laying this wreath, we honor the brave service members who sacrificed their lives fighting for freedom and liberty around the world. Their efforts on every battlefield where the American flag has waved has built our nation into the land of opportunity it is today,” said Congressman Joe Crowley, a member of the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission. “Our nation is indebted to these brave Americans and their families for giving everything to defend the values we hold sacred. As we remember their sacrifice, we’re reminded that their work protecting our nation’s fundamental promise of liberty and justice for all falls on all of us to uphold. This never-ending work to become a more perfect union endures, in their memory.”
Each year, Memorial Day serves as an opportunity to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. This day, observed annually on the last Monday of May, exists as a commemoration of the extraordinary courage and selflessness exemplified by U.S. military service members who gave their lives fighting for the freedoms we hold dear.
America’s Field Trip
Engaging students nationwide to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!
A new contest inviting students in grades 3–12 to share their perspectives on what America means to them — and earn the opportunity to participate in field trip experiences at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.