Explore

Arlington National Cemetery Honors Fallen Soldiers with Memorial Day Traditions

Arlington National Cemetery Honors Fallen Soldiers with Memorial Day Traditions

Arlington National Cemetery is preparing for its annual Memorial Day traditions, which honor U.S. soldiers who have died in service to the country. The cemetery, a final resting place for over 400,000 service members, veterans, and their dependents, will host several events over the Memorial Day weekend. These include the Flowers of Remembrance Day on May 24, where visitors can place flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the 158th National Memorial Day Observance ceremony on May 25. The Old Guard, a ceremonial unit of the U.S. Army, will place flags at more than 260,000 gravesites, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1948. The cemetery will also host a program discussing the history of Decoration Day, which preceded Memorial Day, and a candlelit event featuring storytelling and music.

Honoring Sgt. Freddy Gonzalez: A Tribute to Latino Valor on Memorial Day

Honoring Sgt. Freddy Gonzalez: A Tribute to Latino Valor on Memorial Day

This Memorial Day, the story of Sgt. Alfredo 'Freddy' Gonzalez is highlighted as a testament to the valor of Hispanic Americans in the U.S. military. Gonzalez, a Marine from the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, is remembered for his bravery during the Vietnam War. Despite his small stature, he excelled in football and later in the Marine Corps, where he became a squad leader. After returning to the U.S., he chose to go back to Vietnam following an ambush that killed many of his men. In Vietnam, he took command of a platoon, a role typically held by a lieutenant, due to a shortage of officers. His leadership was crucial during the Battle of Hue, where he was mortally wounded while saving his platoon from destruction. For his actions, Gonzalez was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. His legacy continues with the USS Gonzalez, a guided-missile destroyer named in his honor.

The American Submarine That Sank a Japanese Aircraft Carrier

The American Submarine That Sank a Japanese Aircraft Carrier

The USS Sailfish, a Sargo-class submarine, played a crucial role in the Pacific theater during World War II. Originally launched as USS Squalus, th...

Inside Benjamin O. Davis Jr.’s Rise Through the U.S. Military

Inside Benjamin O. Davis Jr.’s Rise Through the U.S. Military

Davis Jr. stands as a monumental figure in the history of the United States Air Force, celebrated for his groundbreaking achievements and leadershi...

Medal of Honor Recipients Discuss Service and Sacrifice on 'Face the Nation'

Medal of Honor Recipients Discuss Service and Sacrifice on 'Face the Nation'

Retired Lt. Col. William Swenson and retired Command Sergeant Major Matthew Williams, both Medal of Honor recipients, appeared on 'Face the Nation' to discuss their military service and the significance of the Medal of Honor. They reflected on their experiences in Afghanistan, emphasizing the values of bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism. The discussion highlighted the importance of service and the impact of military experiences on personal growth. Both veterans expressed pride in their service and the lessons learned from their time in the military. They also addressed the challenges of transitioning to civilian life and the responsibility of sharing the stories of those who served alongside them.

Oldest Pearl Harbor survivor is keeping memory of the surprise bombing alive at 106

Oldest Pearl Harbor survivor is keeping memory of the surprise bombing alive at 106

Among the dwindling number of Pearl Harbor survivors is Freeman Johnson, who is considered the oldest among them

Medal of Honor Recipients Discuss Military Service and Recognition

Medal of Honor Recipients Discuss Military Service and Recognition

Retired Army Lt. Col. William Swenson and retired Army Command Sergeant Major Matthew Williams, both recipients of the Medal of Honor, were interviewed by Margaret Brennan. The interview, which aired on May 24, 2026, delved into their experiences in the military and the significance of receiving the nation's highest military decoration. Swenson and Williams shared insights into their service, the challenges they faced, and the impact of their recognition on their lives and careers. The Medal of Honor is awarded for acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty, and both veterans discussed the responsibilities and expectations that come with such an honor.

Remembering the fallen Cyclones of World War II

Remembering the fallen Cyclones of World War II

Eleven athletes are among the 375 names listed in Iowa State's Gold Star Hall of those who died during World War II

The powerful history behind Memorial Day’s iconic flower

The powerful history behind Memorial Day’s iconic flower

The red poppy worn during Memorial Day traces its roots to the famous World War I poem “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae. The flower became a lasting symbol of remembrance for fallen soldiers after campaigns led by educator Moina Michael. Today, groups like the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion distribute poppies to raise funds supporting veterans and military families.

On This Day: USS Squalus Suffered a Tragic Sinking Before Becoming USS Sailfish

On This Day: USS Squalus Suffered a Tragic Sinking Before Becoming USS Sailfish

The USS Sailfish, originally known as USS Squalus, is a testament to resilience and innovation in naval history. This Sargo-class submarine of the ...

Memorial Day: Reflecting on the Sacrifices of War Veterans and Their Families

Memorial Day: Reflecting on the Sacrifices of War Veterans and Their Families

Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, is a federal holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring military personnel who have died in service to the country. The tradition began after the American Civil War, with people placing flowers on the graves of fallen soldiers. The first national observance was in 1868, and it became a federal holiday in 1971. The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families, with many veterans returning home with physical and psychological scars. The holiday has evolved into a time for barbecues and sales, but its core purpose remains to honor those who have served and died in military conflicts.