The last Monday of May sees a grateful nation mourn the U.S. military personnel who fought and died in service to their country. Star-spangled flags are set at gravestones marking the resting places of American service members, while above, bells toll in honor of their bravery and sacrifice.
Events at Arlington National Cemetery, one of two national cemeteries run by the U.S. Army, lead national commemorations with a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The unofficial start of the summer season, Memorial Day is nonetheless a moment to pause, reflect, and remember.
When should bells ring on Memorial Day?
Bells may ring 13 tolls at 1:00pm on the last Monday in May.
Alternatively, a peal, quarter peal, or general ringing may begin at noon. Carillons, chimes of suitable range, and handbell ringers may play a recital of pieces appropriate to the occasion.
The bell ringing schedule may be adjusted to better align with local community observances, which may be marked at differing times – for instance, on the preceding Sunday.
Cover image: Sgt. Brian A. Tuthill, at right, salutes alongside Pearl Harbor attack survivors during a Memorial Day bell ringing ceremony at the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument on May 30, 2011. The bell was recovered from the wreckage of the USS Arizona, which was destroyed in the 1941 Japanese attack. Courtesy: U.S. Marine Corps.*
*The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
