MEMORIAL DAY, 2026

President Donald J. Trump has issued a formal proclamation designating Monday, May 25, 2026, as Memorial Day, a day of prayer for permanent peace and national remembrance.As the United States commemorates its 250th year of independence, the President honored the generations of "selfless men and women" who have laid down their lives to secure the American "gift of liberty."The President noted that the foundation of the Republic rests upon the valor displayed from the "frozen fields of Valley Forge" to the mountains of Afghanistan. Notably, the proclamation paid specific tribute to recent losses:Operation Epic Fury: The President honored the 13 members of the Joint Force who recently fell in support of Operation Epic Fury, stating that they gave their lives for "freedom’s cause" and that the nation will never forget the cost.Eternal Gratitude: He reminded all citizens that their freedom was "purchased with the spilled blood of brave warriors" and deserves "eternal reverence and unwavering gratitude."In accordance with federal law and tradition, the President requested that all Americans participate in several solemn observances on May 25:11:00 AM (Local Time): A designated hour for Americans to unite in prayer for permanent peace.3:00 PM (Local Time): The National Moment of Remembrance, where citizens are asked to pause in their own way to honor the fallen.Spiritual Support: The President and First Lady Melania Trump asked for prayers for the "grace of Almighty God to comfort all who grieve" and for the protection of those currently in harm's way.The President directed that the Flag of the United States be flown at half-staff on all federal buildings, grounds, and naval vessels until noon on Memorial Day. He further encouraged private citizens to display the flag at half-staff from their homes during the morning period.President Trump framed Memorial Day as a "fitting and necessary" annual reminder of the "perilously high cost of freedom." He concluded that the United States endures in "strength, power, and prosperity" specifically because of the "awe-inspiring selflessness" of its military heroes.The proclamation serves as a cornerstone of the nation’s Semiquincentennial (250th) celebrations, reaffirming that the "sacred commitment" of the Armed Forces remains the essential guardian of the American way of life.