Memorial Day is more than a long weekend. It is a sacred pause for national reflection and honor. As Americans gather across the country in backyards, neighborhoods, and cemeteries, we are called to remember those who gave everything for our freedom. This day demands more than tradition—it demands heartfelt Memorial Day remembrance.
A Presidential Tribute at Arlington National Cemetery
At 11:00 AM today, President Donald J. Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will lead the nation in solemn tribute at Arlington National Cemetery. As part of the 157th National Memorial Day Observance, President Trump will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and deliver a heartfelt address honoring the families of the fallen.
This year’s observance will feature musical preludes from “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band and the U.S. Navy Band Sea Chanters, along with a parade of colors by veterans’ organizations.
Watch the ceremony live at 11:00 AM: Defense Now YouTube Stream
A President of Peace Calls the Nation to Prayer
In his official 2025 Memorial Day Proclamation, President Trump has once again shown moral clarity and compassion, designating Memorial Day as a Day of Prayer for Permanent Peace. In his words:
“The lives lost in war serve as a solemn reminder of why we must pursue peace through strength.”
The proclamation invites every American to unite in prayer at 11:00 AM and participate in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 PM. President Trump also directs that U.S. flags be flown at half-staff until noon on all federal buildings, vessels, and homes, as a sign of national mourning and honor.
Full proclamation available here:
Prayer for Peace – Memorial Day 2025
Why Memorial Day Remembrance Matters
Since the Civil War era, Memorial Day has been a time to pause and reflect on the high cost of liberty. The brave men and women we honor did not die for political ideologies or global ambitions. They died for the defense of America—our Constitution, our families, and our God-given rights.
As Scripture reminds us:
“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)
Their sacrifice demands not just gratitude, but faithful remembrance.
Pause at 3 PM – National Moment of Remembrance
At 3:00 PM local time, all Americans are called to stop for one minute of silence in a shared act of reverence. This National Moment of Remembrance was established by Congress through Public Law 106-579, and is observed nationwide—wherever Americans are.
Whether you’re with family, in the garden, or standing in quiet reflection, please join your fellow citizens in honoring our fallen heroes at this sacred hour.
Let Remembrance Lead to Renewal
The full Arlington observance, including today’s events, will also be available for viewing:
DVIDS Livestream & Replay
But remembrance must move us beyond ceremony. It must lead us to gratitude, moral clarity, and a renewed commitment to truth, freedom, and peace. Share the names of those who served and died. Speak with your children. Display your flag. Pray for our nation.
“That this may be a sign among you… when your children ask in time to come, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ then you shall tell them…”
— Joshua 4:6–7
Let us remember with reverence. Let us pause with purpose. Let us live worthy of their sacrifice.
