Vikki and Mark Pier used to regularly travel to Arlington National Cemetery to visit their son's final resting place. But due to health issues, they have been unable to visit for the past four years.
The two federal holidays recognize members of the U.S. military, but have their origins in two different wars and were created to celebrate different segments of the veterans community.
Memorial Day is to remember those who have died in military service. NPR's Scott Simon picked three films he found particularly resonant for this weekend.
COVID cases are down, half of the country is at least partially vaccinated and the wanderlust has struck. But the rebound could also mean new challenges for your getaway. Here's how to avoid them.
In Afghanistan, Ralph "AK" Angkiangco was a medic with a Marine platoon that suffered terrible casualties. For years, the holiday was a time to drink and forget, not remember. This year is different.
The coronavirus pandemic has made a day of contrasts — between joy and commemoration — feel even more confusing. For the most part, weather and official efforts kept the festivities muted.
"Never forget the sacrifices that these men and women made. Never, ever, forget," Biden said before leaving the wall. He later told reporters,"It feels good to be out of my house."
The president spoke at Fort McHenry in Baltimore, where American forces repelled the British during the War of 1812. Trump praised the soldiers now fighting the coronavirus.
Thousands of people who were planning to visit war memorials in Washington, D.C., on Memorial Day had to cancel this year. That includes veterans traveling with the nonprofit network Honor Flight.