MURFREESBORO, TN—Memorial Day, observed annually on the last Monday of May, stands as a solemn tribute to the men and women of the U.S. military who gave their lives in service to their country. Unlike other national holidays marked by celebration, Memorial Day is dedicated to remembrance, reflection, and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice made by fallen service members.
A Day of Honor and Mourning - Originally known as Decoration Day, the tradition emerged after the Civil War when communities began adorning the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags. In 1868, the Grand Army of the Republic formally recognized the day, solidifying its role in honoring military loss. Over a century later, in 1971, Memorial Day became an official federal holiday, ensuring its annual observance nationwide.
Across the country, cemeteries and memorials are visited, flags are placed at grave sites, and parades and religious ceremonies take place—all in tribute to those who have fallen. At 3:00 p.m. local time, the National Moment of Remembrance invites citizens to pause in silent reflection, acknowledging the price of freedom and the courage of those who defended it.
The Weight of Sacrifice - As President James A. Garfield poignantly declared during a Memorial Day address in 1868, “For love of country they accepted death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and their virtue.”
For families and friends who shoulder the grief of that sacrifice, Memorial Day is not simply a tradition but a personal remembrance—a time to honor the loved ones who gave everything for their nation.
Local leaders and officers encourage all citizens to carry forward the legacy of the fallen through acts of respect, integrity, and community service. As the day unfolds, they urge residents to reflect on the freedoms secured by those who can no longer walk among us, and to embody the values they fought to defend.
With gratitude and solemn reverence, the nation remembers.
In Flanders Fields
By John McCrae
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
On this Memorial Day, let every heart and mind carry forward the torch of remembrance.
