PROCLAMATION FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
Memorial Day stands as a hallowed occasion for reflection, respect, and appreciation for those courageous souls who have given their lives in the service of our Nation. Throughout our storied past, men and women have bravely ventured into foreign lands to safeguard the ideals of liberty, defending not just our borders but the very essence of what it means to be American. Their ultimate sacrifices resonate through flag-draped coffins and the quiet sorrow of the bereaved. It is imperative that we hold in our hearts the memory of those who have sacrificed everything for our freedom.
America’s Gold Star Families, who bear the heavy burden of loss—sons, daughters, spouses—experience a pain that is difficult to fathom. These individuals have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our sovereignty, and they deserve our unwavering support, profound gratitude, and utmost respect. The lives lost in the theater of war serve as a solemn reminder that we must relentlessly pursue peace fortified by strength.
We owe a debt of gratitude to our fallen heroes that can never truly be repaid. On this day of solemn remembrance, the First Lady and I invite every American to join us in prayer, asking Almighty God to provide comfort to those who grieve, extend protection to those currently serving, and bestow peace upon the world.
In tribute to our fallen heroes, Congress, through a joint resolution ratified on May 11, 1950, as amended (36 U.S.C. 116), has requested that the President proclaim each Memorial Day as a day of prayer for enduring peace. Furthermore, Public Law 106-579 has designated 3:00 p.m. local time on this day as the National Moment of Remembrance, encouraging Americans to pause and reflect in their own meaningful ways.
THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, hereby proclaim Memorial Day, May 26, 2025, as a day dedicated to prayer for lasting peace. I designate the hour starting at 11:00 a.m. local time on that day for all people to unite in prayer. I encourage all citizens to observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day. Additionally, I request that Governors across the United States and its territories, along with relevant officials at every level of government, ensure that the flag is flown at half-staff until noon on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout our Nation and in all territories under its jurisdiction. I also encourage citizens to display the flag at half-staff from their homes during the customary morning hours.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I affix my signature this twenty-fourth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, marking the two hundred and forty-ninth year of American Independence.
DONALD J. TRUMP
