Department of Defense Recognition and Commemoration of the Fallen Men and Women of the U.S. Uniformed Services
WASHINGTON – The nation’s 154th National Memorial Day Wreath-Laying and Observance Program to honor America’s fallen will be live-streamed from Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) at noon EDT, Monday, May 30.
The U.S. Army Military District of Washington will conduct a Presidential Armed Forces Full Honor Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, followed by an observance program hosted by the Department of Defense in the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery. A prelude by the U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” will begin in the amphitheater at 11:15 a.m.
President Biden will lay the wreath at the ceremony, hosted by Maj. Gen. Patrick E. Matlock, Special Assistant to the Director of the Army Staff. Attendance at the wreath-laying ceremony will be limited to official participants only.
The 28th Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III will host the Department of Defense observance program in the Memorial Amphitheater. Seating for this portion of the observance will be on a first-come, first-served basis. A free shuttle service will provide transportation from ANC’s Welcome Center to the Memorial Amphitheater beginning at 9 a.m. Walking to the amphitheater is prohibited. Due to the potential traffic delays on and around Memorial Avenue, family pass holders are encouraged to enter at ANC’s Southern Service Complex Gate (Columbia Pike location) to minimize wait times to enter the cemetery.
The public is encouraged to view the ceremonies live at: www.dvidshub.net/webcast/28869.
If you are planning to visit the cemetery over Memorial Day weekend, please review access instructions, tips and listing of scheduled events at https://arlingtoncemetery.mil/Visit/Getting-Here/Directions.
NOTE: Attendees will be required to pass through a security checkpoint to gain access to the cemetery and ceremony. Prohibited items include: large bags or backpacks, firearms and weapons of any type, laser pointers, aerosol containers, soda cans, umbrellas, coolers, picnic baskets, tripods, lighters, screwdrivers (or similar tools), air horns, personal protection sprays, and insulated beverage containers. Clear plastic water bottles are permitted.
For more information about Arlington National Cemetery, visit the cemetery’s website at www.arlingtoncemetery.mil
For more information about the wreath-laying or observance program, email the U.S. Army Military District of Washington Public Affairs Office at usarmy.mcnair.mdw.mbx.mediadesk-omb@mail.mil.