Honoring Military Service – Ceremony Moments of Tribute and Celebration
Aside from combat and training, ceremonies are an essential aspect of military life. These ceremonies play a crucial role in maintaining the morale, discipline, and cohesion of the military, while also fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of military life among the public.
In ancient Rome, military ceremonies were grand events. Victorious generals were celebrated with triumphal processions, where they paraded through the streets with their troops, captives, and spoils of war. These ceremonies were not only a display of military might but also a way to honor the dedication and bravery of soldiers.
As time passed, these traditions were adopted by various regions and cultures, evolving to fit local practices and values. Today, military ceremonies range from formal state occasions, such as national holidays and official parades, to more intimate unit-level commemorations. These events often include elements like the presentation of colors, salutes, and speeches.
Take a look at these pictures to see how modern ceremonies are celebrated.
71st National Veterans Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery
On November 11, 2024, visitors gathered at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, to participate in the 71st National Veterans Day Observance. This annual event honors the service and sacrifices of U.S. military veterans. The ceremony included various tributes, such as speeches, wreath-laying, and moments of silence, to recognize the bravery and dedication of those who have served in the armed forces.
80th Anniversary of Operation Market Garden in the Netherlands
On September 12, 2024, a World War II veteran gave a thumbs-up while riding in a vintage U.S. Army Jeep during the opening ceremony for the 80th anniversary commemoration of Operation Market Garden in Mesch, the Netherlands.
This significant event honored the veterans who were the esteemed guests of the ceremony. Operation Market Garden, which began on September 17, 1944, was a crucial military operation that initiated the liberation of the Netherlands from German occupation during World War II.
U.S. Army Band Performs at UAE Chief of Staff’s Arrival Ceremony
Members of the U.S. Army Band played during an arrival ceremony at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia. The event, held on August 22, 2024, was hosted by Air Force General CQ Brown, Jr., chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to welcome Lieutenant General Eisa Saif Mohammed Al Mazrouei, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the United Arab Emirates. The ceremony featured a series of formalities, including the playing of national anthems and military honors.
President Biden Awards Medal of Honor to Descendant of Civil War Hero
During a Medal of Honor ceremony at the White House in Washington, D.C., on July 3, 2024, President Joe Biden presented the Medal of Honor for U.S. Army Pvt. George D. Wilson to Theresa Chandler, Wilson’s great-great-granddaughter. Wilson, along with U.S. Army Pvt. Philip G. Shadrach, was awarded the Medal of Honor for acts of valor during the April 1862 “Great Locomotive Chase” in the Civil War.
U.S. Army Celebrates 249th Birthday with Capitol Hill Ceremony
On June 13, 2024, U.S. Army Pfc. Daniel Adams, assigned to the 3rd Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), Deputy Under Secretary of the Army Hon. Mario Diaz, and Director of the Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Laura Potter, participated in the Army 249th Birthday cake-cutting ceremony at the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. The U.S. Army, established on June 14, 1775, celebrates 249 years of Soldiers turning obstacles into possibilities, “Honoring the Past and Defending the Future.”
Maastricht Honors WWII Veterans with Ticker Tape Parade
On September 12, 2024, World War II veterans watched the Ticker Tape Parade in Maastricht, Netherlands. This parade is held to honor the veterans who liberated Maastricht on September 14, 1944.
West Point Class of 2024 Celebrates Graduation at Michie Stadium
On May 25, 2024, the United States Military Academy at West Point held its Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2024 at Michie Stadium in West Point, New York. This event marked the culmination of years of rigorous academic and military training for the cadets.
The ceremony featured various traditions, including the presentation of diplomas, the commissioning of new officers, and inspirational speeches from distinguished guests. Family members, friends, and faculty gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduates, who are now prepared to serve as leaders in the U.S. Army.
82nd Airborne Paratroopers Honor 80th D-Day Anniversary in France
On June 2, 2024, paratroopers and the Colors Guard of the 82nd Airborne Division prepared for a ceremony outside Mont Saint Michel, France. U.S. military personnel commemorated the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord, the Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, widely known as D-Day. This event highlighted the Department of Defense’s continued commitment to honor the historic significance of D-Day and the sacrifices made, connecting the strength of the alliance and dedicated resolve required during WWII to NATO, which strengthens unity today.
Participating service members from approximately 25 units took part in around 120 commemorative events from May 30 to June 10, across roughly 40 French communities throughout the Normandy region. These events included a U.S.-hosted ceremony at Normandy American Cemetery on June 6 and a commemorative airborne operation on June 9. The series of ceremonies and activities served to honor the bravery and sacrifices of those who took part in the historic D-Day invasion, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire and unite future generations.
WWII Veteran Attends 79th Battle of the Bulge Commemoration at Arlington
On January 25, 2024, Darrell Bush, 99, a former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and a WWII veteran of the Battle of the Bulge, attended a ceremony commemorating the 79th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. The event took place at the Battle of the Bulge Memorial in Section 21 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va. The ceremony honored the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought in one of the most significant battles of World War II.
Korean War Veteran Attends 70th Armistice Anniversary Ceremony at Arlington
On March 16, 2023, a U.S. Army veteran from the Korean War attended a ceremony commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the Signing of the Korean War Armistice at the 3d Infantry Division Monument in Section 46 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.
U.S. Army Band Joins Wreath-Laying Ceremony at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
On January 20, 2023, the U.S. Army Band, known as “Pershing’s Own,” joined an Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia. General Eric Autellet, the Vice Chief of Defense from France, laid the wreath during the ceremony. This act served as a poignant tribute to the unknown soldiers who have given their lives in service.
