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Memorial Day
Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs
Memorial Day
THE MUFFLED drum's sad roll has beat The soldier's last tattoo; No more on Life's parade shall meet That brave and fallen few. On Fame's eternal camping-ground 5 Their silent tents are spread, And Glory guards, with solemn round, The bivouac of the dead.
Bivouac Of The Dead, by Theodore O'Hara
Memorial Day, which is observed on the last Monday of May, commemorates the men and women who died while in the military service. In observance of the holiday, many people visit cemeteries and memorials, and volunteers often place American flags on each grave site at national cemeteries. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time.
Memorial Day Resources
- History of Memorial Day
- Memorial Day Order
- National Cemetery Administration
- National and State Veterans Cemeteries
- Arlington National Cemetery
- Displaying the Flag at Half-staff
- General Flag Display Guidelines
- Folding the Flag
- Poppy Flower
- Taps
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Veterans Crisis Line:
1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)
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