MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY REMEMBERS MILITARY HEROES

AT ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

ARLINGTON, Va. – A patriotic ceremony honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s military members is scheduled for May 29 at 11 a.m. in the Arlington National Cemetery Memorial Amphitheater.

This year’s event, which marks the 138^th observance of Memorial Day on these hallowed grounds, will be hosted by Maj. Gen. Guy C. Swan III, commanding general of the Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region and US Army Military District of Washington.

A wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Tomb of the Unknowns, followed by a remembrance ceremony in the amphitheater. The event will begin at 10:20 a.m. with a prelude concert by the U.S. Navy Band inside the amphitheater.

The ceremonies are free and open to the military community and general public. No tickets are needed to attend this event. However, due to the timing of the events, the general public must chose between the two ceremonies.

People interested in observing the wreath ceremony should understand that it is standing room only. Inside the amphitheater, seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The amphitheater seats 4,500 people; attendees are encouraged to arrive early to ensure access to the event.

The cemetery gates open at 8 a.m. and a free shuttle service will begin transporting people from the Visitor Center to the amphitheater/tomb. Free parking is available in the Visitor Center parking lot until 1 p.m.

Fort Myer will offer a free shuttle from the Old Post Chapel for DOD ID card holders starting at 8 a.m.

For details, call Arlington National Cemetery at (703) 607-8000.