Honoring the Fallen: Student Veterans Attend the 157th Memorial Day Observance at Arlington

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Military service members join the all-volunteer armed forces for many reasons: to serve their country, to protect our freedoms and values, and, for some, for the benefits that come with service. No matter the reason, not all service members are afforded the privilege of returning home to utilize those benefits or to see the country they sacrificed so much to preserve.

For those who do not return to their friends and families, we honor and remember them on Memorial Day—a day when we, as a nation, pay tribute to their service and sacrifice.

This year, student veterans from George Washington University and staff from Howard University had the privilege of attending the 157th Memorial Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery. Held annually in the more-than-a-century-old Memorial Amphitheater, situated in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the ceremony honors all fallen service members. It includes a wreath-laying at the tomb, followed by remarks from the official party. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth welcomed the attendees, Vice President JD Vance spoke on service and sacrifice, and President Donald Trump delivered the Memorial Day Address.

Following the ceremony, student veterans and university staff were honored to pay tribute to the fallen by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Symbolizing the beauty and brevity of life, laying a wreath is a solemn and respectful gesture of gratitude for those who paid the ultimate price.

As we reflect on this past Memorial Day, may we carry forward the legacy of those who gave everything in service to our nation. Their courage and sacrifice remind us of the true cost of freedom and the enduring responsibility we share to honor them not just on Memorial Day, but every day. Let us strive to live lives worthy of their sacrifice.

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