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Published on: Thursday, April 30, 2026 read more ...

Army National Military Cemeteries Announces Fifth Flowers of Remembrance Day

5/17/2026

Members of the public are again invited to place a flower at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

ARLINGTON, Va.—Army National Military Cemeteries (ANMC) is honored to announce the fifth Flowers of Remembrance Day, to be held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery on Sunday, May 24, 2026, from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

“We are honored to host the fifth annual Flowers of Remembrance Day, an occasion that holds great significance not only for Arlington National Cemetery, but for the entire nation,” remarked Executive Director of Army National Military Cemeteries and the Office of Army Cemeteries Karen Durham-Aguilera. "This year’s event carries a special historical significance as we join the nation in honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.”

Flowers of Remembrance Day pays homage to the first official, national, annual Decoration Day, now known as Memorial Day. This ceremony first took place at Arlington National Cemetery on May 30, 1868, to honor U.S. service members who died in the Civil War.

At 9 a.m. in the outdoor bowl of Memorial Amphitheater, Sentinels from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier will offer a public program named “Meet-a-Tomb Guard.” During this event, they will share insights into the duties of a Tomb Guard, host a Q&A session and take photos with attendees. At 10 a.m. in the outdoor bowl of the Memorial Amphitheater, ANMC historians will present a lecture on the history of Memorial Day, this holiday’s significance to ANC and its connections to Flowers of Remembrance Day. At 10:30 a.m., following the lecture, historians will lead a walking tour with a special emphasis on America’s 250th birthday. Click here for more information about these events.

"Inviting the public to walk across the plaza at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to place a flower at the resting site of our Unknowns is a powerful way to reflect on the true essence of Memorial Day," said Superintendent of Arlington National Cemetery John Knapp.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation will provide flowers. Visitors do not need to bring their own flowers.


Learn more: Explore our Education Program materials on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the history of Memorial Day, America 250 and many other topics. 

► For the latest updates on Flowers of Remembrance Day, please follow our social media platforms @arlingtonnatl.