Memorial Day, the last Monday of May each year, marks the beginning of summer for many of us. Weather is mild, the day is long, seasonal businesses are staffed for summer vacation, and schools are at or nearing the end of the term. The levity of the long weekend can obscure the solemn meaning of the holiday– to honor those whose lives were lost in service to our country.
Make Memorial Day more meaningful this year by spending part of your weekend at any of the observances hosted or supported by LA Fleet Week. Military ceremonies are unique and compelling, and standing side by side with service members in pristine uniforms will only increase the feeling of significance. Common elements of a military observance for Memorial Day include precise presentations of national and service flags, addresses from notable leaders, gun salutes, wreath laying, parades, and veteran memorial or cemetery maintenance. Public observances are an opportunity for service members of all ages to interact with military and community leaders, learn the history and heritage of their branch, and meet veterans, survivors, and local communities.
As part of this year’s LA Fleet Week, hundreds of visiting Sailors, Marines, and Coastguardsmen will work with communities and organizations including local scout groups to place flags at veterans’ graves across the county, including San Pedro Cemetery, Wilmington Cemetery, and others. At Brand Park in Mission Hills, families and veterans are encouraged to observe Memorial Day alongside service members and local law enforcement with an event featuring food trucks, games, and music from the Marine Corps Band. And a wreath presentation and flag raising accompanied by the Navy Band Southwest is expected to draw thousands from the community to Green Hills Memorial Park in Rancho Palos Verdes.
At the Port of LA, the Memorial Day observance doubles as LA Fleet Week’s closing ceremonies, giving visitors an opportunity to celebrate the event with gratitude for service members that gave everything in the name of freedom.Â
Memorial Day programs are all in addition to ship tours, vendors, demonstrations and other performances held at the Port of LA and throughout the county during LA Fleet Week. Check lafleetweek.com/events_schedule/ often for event updates and visit the Port of Los Angeles May 23-26 for LA Fleet Week 2025!
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.