Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May each year in the United States. In 2026, Memorial Day was observed on May 25. The federal holiday honors members of the U.S. Armed Forces who died while serving the country. Americans observe the day in a variety of ways, including participating in local ceremonies, displaying flags, and taking a National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m.
Steven Bagut, a Senior Building Custodian in Manhattan City Hall, explained what Memorial Day means to him.
“Memorial Day means to me as a day to honor the fallen, to honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice,” Bagut said. “We honor those military men and women who lost their lives protecting this country. It is also a day of patriotism, to wave the American flag with pride while honoring the special forces. For those reasons, families get together on this day to pay tribute to the armed forces and those we lost.”
Bagut emphasized the importance of honoring service members who gave their lives while serving the nation and noted that many families gather on Memorial Day to pay their respects.
Yolanda and Camilo Cuellar moved to the United States with their family more than 30 years ago. They said Memorial Day has become an important part of their family calendar. Each year, they participate in community activities that honor those who died while serving in the military.
Cuellar stated, “For us, it is a way to remember all the soldiers who have died in the war defending our country.”
Their experience reflects how many families across the country take part in events that recognize the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces.
Joseph Gonzalez, a professional electrician, also shared his thoughts on the holiday.
“It is a solemn day of remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice and died while serving in the armed forces of the United States,” Gonzalez said.
Gonzalez has traveled several times with his family to Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, to honor fallen service members and learn more about the nation’s military history.
The interviews revealed a common theme: Memorial Day is a time for remembrance, reflection, and honoring those who gave their lives while serving the United States. Through ceremonies, family traditions, and community events, people across the country continue to recognize the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces.
