Memorial Day 2026

Today is Memorial Day – observed on the last Monday in May, it is a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring the men and women who gave their lives while serving in the US military. The first national observance of what would become Memorial Day occurred on May 30, 1868, and was then known as Decoration Day. In the years that followed, much has been said about the day. Here are a few significant quotes:

It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived. George S. Patton
Words are even more feeble on Memorial Day, for the sight before us is that of a strong and good nation that stands in silence and remembers those who were loved and who, in return, loved their countrymen enough to die for them. Ronald
Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it. Unknown
Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them. Franklin D. Roosevelt

The nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten. Calvin Coolidge
Time will not dim the glory of their deeds. General John Pershing
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13