Wreath Ceremonies at Military Graves

Images of formal military wreath-laying ceremonies, flag folding, and saluting at gravesites, conveying solemnity and respect.

U.S. Air Force Airman Owen Ray and Airman 1st Class Caleb Bertels, 375th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighters, raise the U.S. flag during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, Sept. 9, 2022. The flag is flown at half-staff to remember the victims of the terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001.

Belgian Chief of Defence Adm. Michel Hofmann; Defense Attaché to the US and Canada Rear Adm. Garl Gillis; and Belgian Navy Commander Rear Adm. Jan De Beurme; participate in a Public Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., April 5, 2023. As part of his visit to ANC, Hofman returned three recently re-ribboned Croix de Guerre Belgian medals which were originally presented to the Unknown Soldiers.

A U.S. Navy Honor Guard folds the American Flag during interment services for former astronaut Alan Bean, Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018 at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. Selected as an astronaut in 1963, Bean flew in space twice, becoming the fourth human to walk on the Moon on Nov. 19, 1969 and spent 59 days in space as commander of the second Skylab mission in 1973.

DA-SC-85-00823. Base: Arlington State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment Caisson Platoon, and the U.S. Army Band, Pershings Own conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army 1st Lt. Myles W. Esmay in Section 36 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Aug. 1, 2022. Esmay was killed on June 7, 1944 during the siege of Myitkyina, Burma in World War II. From the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) press release:In the spring and summer of 1944, Esmay, an infantry engineer, was a member of Company B, 236th Engineer Combat Battalion, reinforcing the 5307th Composite Unit (Provisional), also known as Merrills Marauders. Esmays battalion arrived at the recently captured airfield in Myitkyina, Burma, on May 28, where they were tasked with holding the airfield and taking part in the siege of Myitkyina. On June 4, the battalion attacked Japanese forces at Namkwi village northwest of the airfield. The fighting lasted until June 7. Esmay wa

040609-F-3050V-137. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MDW

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) support military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Army Gen. Montgomery Meigs in Section 1 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 25, 2022. Meigs served as the head of U.S. Army Europe and Seventh Army from 1998 to 2002, where he commanded the NATO peacekeeping force in Bosnia. A 1967 graduate from the U.S. Military Academy, he commanded an armored cavalry unit in Vietnam and the 1st Armored Division in the Persian Gulf War. Meigs was named after his great-great-great granduncle who served during the Civil War as the Armys Quartermaster General and was the architect of Arlington National Cemetery. He is also buried in Section 1. Meigs spouse, Mary Meigs, received the U.S. flag from his service. (U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released)

Body Bearers with Bravo Company, Marine Barracks Washington, carry the funerary urns of Sgt. Maj. John L. Canley during a full honors funeral at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Aug 25, 2022. Canley was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2018 for his actions in 1968 during the battle of Hue City, Vietnam. His award citation notes that while serving as the company gunnery sergeant for Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, Sgt. Maj. Canley and his Marines fought off multiple attacks as they patrolled the city streets to relieve another company of Marines.

Brig. Gen. Steven Kremer salutes after presenting a wreath during a ceremony at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch, Iowa, on Oct. 23, 2022. Kremer was invited to present the presidential wreath during the ceremony to honor the life of the U.S. president, who died Oct. 20, 1964, and was laid to rest in his hometown. It was the first time in two years that the community held the ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Leslie Hoover Lauble, the great granddaughter of President Hoover, also presented a wreath to represent the Hoover family.

Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin (left), commanding general, Joint Task Force -National Capital Region, and Thomas Manger (right), chief of police, U.S. Capitol Police, render honors during an Army Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., April 21, 2022.

U.S. Air Force Airman Owen Ray and Airman 1st Class Caleb Bertels, 375th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighters, raise the U.S. flag during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, Sept. 9, 2022. The flag is flown at half-staff to remember the victims of the terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001.

SAN PEDRO (May 30, 2022) Cpl. Lavaughn Frame, a Landing Support Specialist, assigned to 1st Logistics Support Battalion, from Chester, Penn., carries the Veterans Memorial wreath at Green Hills Memorial Park during Los Angeles Fleet Week (LAFW), May 30, 2022. LAFW is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience America's sea services. During fleet week, service members participate in various community service events, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community, and enjoy the hospitality of Los Angeles and its surrounding areas.

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), participate in a Joint Armed Forces Color Guard presentation during an Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-laying ceremony, Sept. 15, 2022, at the grave sit of 27th President of the United States, William H. Taft, in Arlington National Cemetery, Va. During the ceremony, hosted by Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director, Army National Military Cemeteries, Maj. Gen. John H. Phillips, Military Deputy to Deputy Chief of Staff, G6, (IMA) laid a wreath to commemorate Tafts 165th birthday. (U.S. Army photos by Sgt. Laura Stephens)

031105-M-8049T-021. Base: Marine Corps Base, Quantico State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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040609-F-5589M-202. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MDW

U.S. Marine Corps pallbearers from 4th Marine Aircraft Wing escort the casket of U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Joseph P. Hoar(retired) at Miramar National Cemetery, San Diego, California, Oct. 7, 2022. Gen. Hoar served honorably for 37 years and held many distinguished positions includingCommanding Officer, 1st Marine Regiment; Commanding General, Eastern Recruiting Region; and Commander, United States Central Command. Gen. Hoar was a native of Boston.

040609-N-9712C-001. Base: Naval Base, Point Mugu State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Members of the United States Air Force Honor Guard carry the casket of the fifth chief master sergeant of the Air Force, Robert D. Gaylor, Feb. 10, 2024 at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Joint Base San Antonio hosted the memorial service and interment for Gaylor, across JBSA-Lackland, Texas, and Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Gaylor left his home in Indiana to enlist in the Air Force and then called the San Antonio area his post-military home for more than four decades. He is survived by his son, Kenny, and daughters Carol and Elaine. Air Force

Body Bearers with Bravo Company, Marine Barracks Washington, stand at the position of attention during a full honors funeral for Sgt. Maj. John L. Canley at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Aug 25, 2022. Canley was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2018 for his actions in 1968 during the battle of Hue City, Vietnam. His award citation notes that while serving as the company gunnery sergeant for Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, Sgt. Maj. Canley and his Marines fought off multiple attacks as they patrolled the city streets to relieve another company of Marines.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Michael L. Brooks, base commander, Marine Corps Base Quantico, left, renders a salute while retired Sgt. Maj. Carlton W. Kent, 16th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps and guest of honor, right, stands at attention during the presentation of the colors during MCBQs cake cutting ceremony in honor of the 247th Marine Corps Birthday at Butler Stadium on MCBQ, Virginia, Nov. 9, 2022. The annual cake cutting ceremony is a long-standing tradition which celebrates the establishment of the United States Marine Corps. The Marine Corps birthday is celebrated every year to commemorate the birth of the Corps and honor the service and sacrifices of all Marines, past and present.

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 3rd Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) pay respects to a 3rd Infantry Division wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, July 15, 2022. A wreath laying ceremony symbolizes the beauty and brevity of life, honoring all who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in service for their country.

U.S. Military Members from U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, U.S.Army Garrison Italy, Aviano Air Base, Camp Darby Military Community and Military Vaterans honored their comrades who lost their life for our freedom, at Florence Memorial Cemetery, Italy, May 30, 2022. Consul General of the United States in Florence, Ragini Gupta read the Presidential Proclamation to open the commemoration ceremony. Guests of honor were the United States Ambassador for the Holy See Joseph Donnelly, the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa Commander, and the U.S. Army Europe and Africa Deputy Commanding General, Major Gen. Andrew Rohling, and the Italian Deputy Minister of Defense, Honorable Stefania Pucciarelli.

The U.S. Air Force Honor Guard, the U.S. Air Force Ceremonial Brass Band, and the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Caisson Platoon conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Cuthbert Pattillo and Lt. Gen. Charles Pattillo in Section 75 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 14, 2022.Twin brothers, Maj. Gen. and Lt. Gen. Pattillo enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Forces in November 1942. During World War II, both flew with the Eighth Air Forces 352nd Fighter Group, protecting bombers and attacking ground targets. Maj. Gen. Pattillo flew 135 combat missions before being shot down and captured by the Germans. He remained a POW until the end of the war.Both were released from active duty following World War II but were later recalled in early 1948, serving with the 31st Fighter Group. Later, both served with the with the 36th Tactical Wing at Furstenfeldbruck Air Base in Germany. While in Europe, both helped form and flew in the U.S

Veterans Day ceremony and aftermath at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C., where Secretary Dirk Kempthorne delivered the opening remarks, and joined participating dignitaries including the former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, along with Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Founder and President Jan Scruggs, Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation Founder and President Diane Carlson Evans, Mary "Edie" Meeks of the Vietnam Women's Memorial Foundation, William Hansen of Lockheed Martin, and William Murdy of Comfort Systems. Ceremony, co-hosted by the Memorial Fund and the National Park Service, highlighted the 25th anniversary of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

040611-F-5906P-299. Base: Andrews Air Force Base State: Maryland (MD) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Georgian Defence Minister Juansher Burchuladze (center right) and U.S. Army Col. David Rowland (center left), commander, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) render honors during an Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, Feb. 9, 2023.

A US Air Force in Europe Honor Guard removes one of six flag draped coffins from the cargo bay of a US Air Force C-17 Globe MASTER aircraft at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. The coffins contain the remains of Coalition Soldiers who were killed during a training accident in Kuwait on 12 March 2001. (Duplicate image, see also DFSD0202965 or search 010315F3329S503). Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

Soldiers from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Caisson Platoon carry the casket of Army Sgt. 1st Class James A. Coleman, during his full honors military funeral in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Oct. 19, 2022.In April 1951, Coleman was a member of Company I, 3rd Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. He was reported missing in action on April 25 during fighting against Chinese Communist Forces near the Hwach-on Reservoir in the modern-day Republic of Korea (ROK). His status was changed to killed in action on Oct. 3, 1952, based on eyewitness accounts from a Soldier in a neighboring foxhole. His body was unable to be recovered due to the fighting.In July 2018, the DPAA proposed a plan to disinter 652 Korean War Unknowns from the Punchbowl. In January 2019, DPAA disinterred Unknown X-5960 as part of Phase One of the Korean War Disinterment Plan and sent the remains to the DPAA laborator

The Indiana National Guard's ceremonial unit helps bring a fallen hero home during an honorable transfer in Indianapolis, Ind., April 5, 2022. An honorable transfer is a tradition that displays honor, dignity and respect during the return of a fallen service member.

A U.S. Navy Honor Guard places the urn containing the ashes of former astronaut Alan Bean on the horse drawn caisson during interment services, Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018 at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. Selected as an astronaut in 1963, Bean flew in space twice, becoming the fourth human to walk on the Moon on Nov. 19, 1969 and spent 59 days in space as commander of the second Skylab mission in 1973.

Marines from the The Presidents Own Marine Band, Marines from the Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C. (8th and I), and the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Caisson Platoon conduct military funeral honors with funeral escort for Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. John Canley in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Aug. 25, 2022. Canley was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2018 for his actions during the battle of Hue City, Vietnam in 1968. As the Company Gunnery Sergeant, Company A, 1st Battalion, 1st Marine, 1st Marine Division, Canley and his Marines fought off multiple vicious attacks while attempting to relieve friendly forces that were surrounded by enemy forces. According to the award citation, despite being wounded in these engagements, Canley repeatedly rushed across fire-swept terrain to carry his wounded Marines to safety. Canley took command of Company A after his commanding officer was severely wounded and led the Marines into Hue

The funeral procession carries the casket of Air Force Brig. Gen. Charles E. McGee to his gravesite at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., June 17, 2022. McGee, a Tuskegee Airman, died Jan. 16, 2022 at the age of 102. He served 30 years during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin (center right), commanding general, Joint Forces Headquarters - National Capital Region and the U.S. Military District of Washington, provides a ceremonial briefing to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (center) on how to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 13, 2023.

220707-N-TO573-1013 ADRIATIC SEA (June 7, 2022) Lt. Cmdr. Christopher McHenry, from Rising Sun, Maryland, salutes his late father, U.S. Army Maj. (Ret.) Robert McHenry Jr., during a burial-at-sea aboard USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), June 7, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

DA-SC-85-00841. Base: Travis Air Force Base State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Members of a joint services honor guard surround the casket of the Unknown Serviceman of the Vietnam Era at the conclusion of the arrival ceremony in the Capitol rotunda. The Unknown will lie in state in the rotunda until Memorial Day and will then be taken to Arlington National Cemetery for a state funeral and interment at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Corporal David B. Milano, MIA, was lost in action during the Korean War on December 2, 1950. After 71 years, he will be repatriated back to the United States and reunited with his family. An Honor Guard made up of members of the Utah National Guard conduct an Honorable Carry at the Salt Lake City International Airport, April 26, 2022. Milano was born in Chicago, Illinois on Dec. 23, 1932, to Albert and Lida Milano. His family relocated to Utah, where Milano will be laid to rest next to his mother, sister and brother-in-law at Evergreen Memorial Park, 100 Monroe Blvd., Ogden, Utah.

230330-N-KU796-1097 BUSAN, Republic of Korea (March 30, 2023) U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Christopher Sweeney, commander, Carrier Strike Group 11, visits the United Nations Memorial in Busan, Republic of Korea. The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) is in the U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Minister of Defense of The Republic of North Macedonia Slavjanka Petrovska participates in a Public Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., June 1, 2022.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Mark A. Milley, stand for the national anthem during the 21st 9/11 Pentagon Observance Ceremony on Sept. 11, 2022, at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

Emmitsburg, MD, August 12, 2015-The National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Flag Detail raises 92 USA flags at the Emergency Management Institute (EMI). These flags were previously flown over the US Capitol in honor of the fallen firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. Adam DuBrowa FEMA.. Photographs Relating to Disasters and Emergency Management Programs, Activities, and Officials

A joint services honor guard participates in the full honors funeral for GEN Nathan Twining, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of STAFF from 1957-1960, at the Arlington National Cemetery. Base: Arlington State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

040609-F-2034C-002. Base: Washington State: District Of Columbia (DC) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: MDW

Paul Monti, father of Medal of Honor recipient Jared C. Monti, and Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr., stand near Sgt 1st Class Monti's gravesite on Veterans Day at the Mass. National Ceremony in Bourne, Nov. 11, 2009. SFC Jared C. Monti was posthumously awarded the nation's highest award for valor, the Medal Of Honor.

Soldiers with the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) provide ceremonial support during an Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Va., Feb. 13, 2024. The wreath was laid by the Chief of Staff of the India Army, General Manoj Pande, and hosted by Maj. Gen. Trevor J. Bredenkamp, Commanding General, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region, U.S. Army Military District of Washington and Gen. Randy A. George, Chief of Staff of the United States Army. Army

A US Army Chaplain follows a Joint Service Honor Guard of US Army Soldiers and US Air Force Airmen, as they carry one of six flag draped transfer cases from the cargo bay of a US Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, at Ramsetin Air Base, Germany. The transfer case contains the remains of Coalition Soldiers killed during training exercises in Kuwait on 12 March 2001. (Duplicate image, see also DFSD0202966 or search 010315F3329S504). Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU)

The 181st Intelligence Wing Base Honor Guard prepares to fold the flag to present to U.S. Air Force Col. Tamala A. Saylor at Hulman Field Air National Guard Base in Terre Haute, Ind., April 23, 2022. The ceremony was Saylor's last retreat before her retirement ceremony.

070204-A-8359B-005. State: Virgin Islands (VI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

020524-F-0007M-001. Base: Mcguire Air Force Base State: New Jersey (NJ) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Soldiers watching casket at military funeral

Address at Veterans Day Ceremonies, Arlington National Cemetery, 11:01AM. President John F. Kennedy participates in Veterans Day ceremonies. President Kennedy stands with Major General Paul A. Gavan, Commanding General of the Military District of Washington. Standing behind the President (L-R): John S. Gleason, Administrator of Veterans Affairs; Military Aide to the President General Chester V. Clifton; Air Force Aide to the President Colonel Godfrey T. McHugh; Naval Aide to the President Captain Tazewell T. Shepard; and Thomas Stirling, National Commander of the Legion of Valor. Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.

A U.S. Army Soldier salutes a memorial to Danish seamen who were involved in the DDay landing on June 6, 1944, during ongoing observances and ceremonies throughout Normandy, France, on June 6, 2022. More than 6,000 Danish seamen entered WWII to fight with the Allied Forces, and of the 800 who fought during DDay, 1 in 6 lost their lives.

Sailors assigned to Navy Region Hawaii and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) conduct an interment ceremony held at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu, Sept. 21, 2022. DPAA and attending family members paid their respects and honored the life of Petty Officer 1st Class Beoin Corzatt, who was assigned to the USS Oklahoma when the ship was attacked by Japanese aircraft during World War II. Corzatt was accounted for on Dec. 17, 2020, nearly 80 years after the attacks on Pearl Harbor.

A Soldier with the 3rd Infantry Regiment guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier after the U.S. Army's senior leadership laid a reef in tribute to the Army's 233rd birthday at Arlington National Cemetery, VA, June 14, 2008. The U.S. Congress adopted "the American continental army" on June 14, 1775.

The late Hershel Woody” Williams, the last surviving Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, arrives in a flag-covered casket at Joint Base Andrews, Md., July 13, 2022. Williams received his Medal of Honor from President Harry S. Truman on Oct. 5, 1945, at the White House in Washington, D.C.

COLTS NECK, New Jersey -- Naval Weapons Station Earle held a ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of the historic Battle of Midway as well as a re-dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony for the installation's Battle of Midway Park June 6. U.S. Navy photo by Bill Addison/released

A view of the wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers in honor of all American aviators who lsot their lives in service during World War Two. The wreath was presented by members of the Freedom Flight America during a stop over at Andrews AFB. The ceremony is on the lower level during renovation of the amphitheater. Base: Arlington National Cemetery State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Army Col. Shannon-Mikal Lucas, deputy provost marshal general, Office of the Provost Marshal General and U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Viridiana Lavalle, military working dog program manager, Office of the Provost Marshal General render honors during a Public Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 27, 2022.

Service members conduct an Armed Forces Full Honor Wreath-Laying Ceremony at President William H. Tafts Memorial Gravesite in Section 30, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Sept. 15, 2022.The wreath-laying ceremony was held to commemorate Taft's 165th birthday and was hosted by Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director, Army National Military Cemeteries. The wreath was laid by U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John H. Phillips, military deputy to the deputy chief of staff, G-6, United States Army Reserve.

Day of Remembrance. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns as part of NASA's Day of Remembrance, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. The wreaths were laid in memory of those men and women who lost their lives in the quest for space exploration.

British Secretary Minister James Cleverly participates in a Public Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 18, 2023. U.S. Army photo by Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery / released)

ARLINGTON, Va. (May 2, 2013) Members of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard take the casket of a Sailor killed during the Vietnam War to his gravesite at Arlington National Cemetery. Lt. Dennis Peterson, from Huntington Park, Calif.; Ensign Donald Frye, from Los Angeles; and Aviation Antisubmarine Warfare Technicians 2nd Class William Jackson, from Stockdale, Texas, and Donald McGrane, from Waverly, Iowa, all four assigned to Helicopter Squadron (HS) 2, were killed when their SH-3A Sea King helicopter was shot down July 19, 1967 over Ha Nam Province, North Vietnam.

U.S. Marines salute during ceremonial colors at the 39th Beirut Memorial Observance Ceremony at Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Oct. 23, 2022. The memorial observance is held annually on Oct. 23 to remember the lives lost due to the terrorist attacks at U.S. Marine Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon and Grenada.

(Center) Maj. Gen. Mark McCormick, commanding general of the 28th Infantry Division, addresses the crowd and gathered Soldiers during the 28th ID Memorial Service at Boalsburg, Pa. The ceremony was attended by Soldiers from all the Companies, battalions, and brigades, of the division to pay their respects during the service

020314-F-1083S-010. Base: Arlington National Cemetery State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A tomb guard walks the mat during the first Flowers of Remembrance Day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., May 28, 2022. Visitors were given the opportunity to cross the plaza and place a flower in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This event pays homage to the first official Decoration Day, now known as Memorial Day, which originally took place at the cemetery in 1868 as a way to honor the sacrifices of those who fought and died in the Civil War.

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) participate in an Army Honor Wreath Ceremony for the Secret Service Washington Field Office at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Va., June 24, 2022. Special Agent Matthew Stohler, Special Agent in Charge (SES) Washington Field Office, participated in the wreath-laying hosted by Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin, commanding general, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington.( U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Josue Patricio)

Members of the 47th Flying Training Wing Honor Guard fold the flag during the Final Guardmount ceremony at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, May 20, 2022. The 47th Flying Training Wing conducted the ceremony to conclude National Police Week. ( U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kailee Reynolds)

Emmitsburg, MD, August 12, 2015-The National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Flag Detail raises 92 USA flags at the Emergency Management Institute Firefighters Memorial. These flags were previously flown over the US Capitol in honor of the fallen firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. Adam DuBrowa FEMA.. Photographs Relating to Disasters and Emergency Management Programs, Activities, and Officials

The Indiana National Guard supported the 152nd Crown Hill Memorial Service, May 30, 2022 at the Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis, Ind. The ceremony included keynote speaker, retired Marine Cpl. Josh Bleill, a joint-service color guard, the 38th Infantry Division band, a wreath laying ceremony and a 21-gun Howitzer cannon salute.

Pastor Mark Bedford from First Presbyterian Church officiates at the funeral of former 185th Commander Col. Warren G.Bud Nelson at the Memorial Park Cemetery in Sioux City, Iowa on October 14, 2022. Nelson was the last World War II veteran to serve as 185th Commander when he retired in 1980, he passed this week away at the age of 97. U.S. Air National Guard photo Senior Master Sgt. Vincent De Groot 185th ARW Wing PA

Memorial Day Ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, 10:50AM. President John F. Kennedy attends Memorial Day ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. President Kennedy and others stand at attention in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Kiran Ahuja (center left), director, U.S. Office of Personnel Management, and others watch the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Dec. 1, 2022.

Service Members from the U.S. Coast Guard, along with family and friends of the victims of the USS Serpens, attend a wreath-laying ceremony at the USS Serpens Memorial in Section 34 of Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., Jan. 27, 2023. This year marks the 78th anniversary of the explosion and destruction of the USS Serpens (AK-97). 250 service members lost their lives in this incident. This was the largest single disaster in the history of the Coast Guard.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Aug. 18, 2022) U.S. Marine Corps Body Bearers from Bravo Company, Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., carry the casket of Midshipman 2nd Class (junior) Luke Bird during a funeral service at the U.S. Naval Academy. Bird, of New Braunfels, Texas, died July 17, 2022, when he fell over a waterfall while hiking in the Valparaíso region during a semester abroad in Chile.

Maj. Gen. Rodney Faulk (left), commanding general of the Army Reserves 99th Readiness Division, and Air Vice-Marshal Mick Smeath, British defence attache to the United States, place a memorial wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington Square in Philadelphia June 14 as part of Queen Elizabeth IIs Platinum Jubilee celebrating her 70 years on the throne of England. The days events began with a naturalization ceremony for 13 new U.S. citizens at the National Constitution Center, followed by remarks from several senior Army leaders celebrating Flag Day and the U.S. Armys 247th birthday, the administering of the Oath of Enlistment to dozens of new Army recruits, and a traditional cutting of the Army birthday cake.

U.S. Marines from 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, 4th Marine Division transfer the dignified remains of U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jack Brown at Norfolk International Airport, Va., Aug 10, 2022. The U.S. Marine was identified and recovered during the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) investigative efforts to locate and identify remains of fallen heroes. Brown was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his acts of valor and giving the ultimate sacrifice during the Battle of Saipan in World War II.

Calverton National Cemetery Long Island New York USA

Air Force Honor Guard At A Funeral At Arlington Cemetery, Virginia

110911-N-SM578-037PT. MAGU, Calif. (Sept. 11, 2011) Chief petty officer selects retire an American flag during a ceremony commemorating the ten-year anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

U.S. President Ronald Reagan laying wreath at Tomb of The Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, USA, President Ronald Reagan White House Photographic Office, November 11, 1985

Address at Veterans Day Ceremonies, Arlington National Cemetery, 11:01AM. President John F. Kennedy participates in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as part of Veterans Day remembrances. President Kennedy stands with Major General Paul A. Gavan, Commanding General of the Military District of Washington. Standing behind the President (L-R): John S. Gleason, Administrator of Veterans Affairs; Military Aide to the President General Chester V. Clifton; Air Force Aide to the President Colonel Godfrey T. McHugh; Naval Aide to the President Captain Tazewell T. Shepard; and Thomas Stirling, National Commander of the Legion of Valor. Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia.

President Barack Obama pauses after laying a wreath at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Ill., on Memorial Day, May 31, 2010.

Justin Knight, the chapter commander, and James Enman from the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Chapter MD 40-2, carry a ceremonial wreath during a Memorial Day Tribute ceremony held May 30 at the post cemetery on Aberdeen Proving Ground (North), Maryland. Soldiers, civilians, retirees and family members within the APG community gathered to pay homage to those service members who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of the nation.

CAPT. Fred P. Moosally, commanding officer of the battleship USS IOWA (BB-61), speaks at a shipboard ceremony marking the one-year anniversary of the gun turret explosion that killed 47 sailors aboard the ship. A plaque bearing the names of the men who died is being dedicated during the ceremony. Base: Naval Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

DN-ST-89-07215. Country: Unknown

Soldiers assigned to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) provide ceremonial support for the National Memorial Day Observance at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, May 30, 2022. President Joseph R. Biden participated in the Presidential Armed Forces Full Honor wreath-laying ceremony hosted by Maj. Gen. Allan M. Pepin, commanding general, Joint Task Force-National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington.

DF-ST-86-09761. Base: Rhein-Main Air Base Country: West Germany (FRG)

U.S. Army Sgt. Bless E. Sherrill, left, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 44th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, and Spc. William J. Doyle, 104th Brigade Engineer Battalion, both with the New Jersey Army National Guard, salute during the 38th New Jersey Mission of Honor (NJMOH) ceremony at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Wrightstown, New Jersey, Sept. 15, 2022. The cremains of World War I U.S. Army veterans Verna W. Hanway and Hans Lauritson; World War II U.S. Army veterans John Countryman, Robert L. Mabee, Albert T Whiteside, Jr., Elmer A. Willis and World War II U.S. Marine Corps veteran Peter Truszkowski, were honored during the ceremony. Some of these cremains had gone unclaimed for as long as 59 years. NJMOHs mission is to identify, retrieve, and intern the veterans cremains. (New Jersey National Guard photo by Mark C. Olsen)

Official imagery from the memorial services for Chief Warrant Officer 4 Hershel Woodrow Woody Williams, Medal of Honor recipient, held at the West Virginia State Capitol, Sunday, July 3, 2022. Born in Quiet Dell, West Virginia in 1923, Williams, 98, was awarded the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while he served as a demolition sergeant serving with the 21st Marines, third Marine Division while fighting Japanese forces on Iwo Jima on Feb. 23, 1945. At the time of his death on June 29, 2022, he was the last living World War II Medal of Honor recipient.

Coast Guard Seaman Allyson J. Smith rings the celebratory bell during the Military Womens Memorial 25th Anniversary Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Oct. 15, 2022

(From left to right): President Joseph Biden, Vice President Kamala Karris, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III, and U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Patrick E. Matlock, special assistant to the director of the army staff, U.S. Army participate in a Presidential Armed Forces Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., May 30, 2022. This was part of the 154th National Memorial Day Observance.

Two Dutch Paratroopers lay a wreath during a ceremony for the anniversary of Operation Market Garden at the Robert Frost Bridge, Arnhem, Netherlands., Sep. 16, 2022. These European citizen remember the sacrifice from the 1st British Parachute Regiment and honor the ones who lost their lives liberating the Netherlands during World War II.

Members of the 101st Airborne Division Honor Guard carry a casket containing the remains of a member of the 3rd Bn., 502nd Inf., 101st Airborne Div., out of a temporary morgue at Gander Airport. On December 12, 1985, 248 soldiers of the 3rd Battalion were killed in plane crash at airport. They were returning to the United States after participating in peacekeeping duty with the Multi-national Force and Observers in the Sinai Desert. Base: Gander State: Newfoundland (NF) Country: Canada (CAN)

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