On this milestone anniversary, Americans will once again observe Patriot Day in remembrance of the 2,977 victims who lost their lives and the first responders, survivors, service members, and ordinary citizens whose courage came to define the days that followed.

Twenty-five years later, September 11 remains a day to remember those who were lost, reflect on the events that shaped a generation, and ensure their stories are carried forward.

What Happened on September 11, 2001?

On the morning of September 11, 2001, 19 terrorists from al-Qaeda hijacked four commercial passenger planes in a coordinated attack against the United States.

American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 were flown into the North and South Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City. Both towers later collapsed.

American Airlines Flight 77 was flown into the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.

The fourth plane, United Airlines Flight 93, was believed to be headed toward Washington, DC. After learning about the other attacks, passengers and crew members attempted to regain control of the aircraft. Flight 93 ultimately crashed in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

A total of 2,977 victims were killed in the attacks in New York, at the Pentagon, and aboard the four flights. Thousands more were injured, and many first responders, survivors, and others exposed to the attack sites have continued to experience long-term health effects.

25 Years of Remembrance

For those who lived through September 11, the memories of that day remain vivid. But as the nation observes the 25th anniversary in 2026, a growing number of Americans were either very young at the time or were born after the attacks.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum estimates that approximately 100 million Americans today are too young to have a lived memory of September 11. Its 25th-anniversary initiatives place particular emphasis on educating these younger generations and preserving the personal stories of those affected by the attacks.

That makes this milestone an opportunity not only to remember what happened but also to share the stories of the victims, first responders, survivors, passengers and crew members, military personnel, and countless others whose lives were forever connected to that day.

How Patriot Day Came to Be

Patriot Day is a national observance honoring the victims of the September 11 attacks.

Shortly after the attacks, Congress designated September 11 of each year as Patriot Day. The resolution was signed into law on December 18, 2001, and the first Patriot Day was proclaimed by President George W. Bush in 2002. In 2009, September 11 was also federally recognized as a National Day of Service and Remembrance.

Each year, Americans are called upon to honor the victims through remembrance, reflection, service, and appropriate ceremonies.

25th Anniversary Commemorations in 2026

The 25th anniversary of September 11 will be marked by special ceremonies and events at each of the three attack sites, along with remembrance and service efforts taking place throughout the country.

25th Anniversary Events in New York City

At the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in Lower Manhattan, family members of the victims will gather on September 11 for the annual reading of the names. The 2026 ceremony begins at 8:30 am, with the first moment of silence at 8:46 am.

For the first time, the ceremony will include seven moments of silence. In addition to marking the times the World Trade Center towers were struck and fell, the attack on the Pentagon, and the crash of Flight 93, a seventh moment will honor those who have died from 9/11-related illnesses and injuries in the years since the attacks.

Other commemorations in Lower Manhattan include a special performance by the New York Philharmonic and U.S. Army Field Band Soldiers' Chorus at the Perelman Performing Arts Center and an interfaith memorial service at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church & National Shrine.

After sunset, the annual Tribute in Light will once again illuminate the New York City skyline with two beams of light representing the Twin Towers. A special national broadcast, 9/11 Tribute in Light: Live from Lower Manhattan, will also air at 8 pm Eastern Time, allowing Americans across the country to take part in the evening of remembrance.

Remembering Flight 93 in Pennsylvania

Flight 93 National Memorial near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, will hold several events from September 9 through September 13 to mark the 25th anniversary.

On September 11, a morning observance will include reading the names of the 40 passengers and crew members of Flight 93 and ringing the Bells of Remembrance. An afternoon ceremony will include remarks, music, and a public wreath laying at the Wall of Names. Both ceremonies are open to the public.

Additional anniversary events include the creation and display of 40 chalk portraits honoring the passengers and crew, and a September 12 luminaria ceremony in which 40 candle lanterns will be placed beneath their names at the memorial.

Commemorating the Pentagon Attack

In Arlington, Virginia, the 25th anniversary will also mark an important step in preserving the history of the attack on the Pentagon.

On September 10 of this year, the Pentagon Memorial Fund is scheduled to break ground on a new Visitor Education Center adjacent to the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial. The future center, scheduled for completion in 2029, will include historic artifacts, first-person accounts from survivors and victims' families, interactive exhibits, and educational programming about the attack and its lasting impact.

The National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial itself honors the 184 people killed aboard American Airlines Flight 77 and inside the Pentagon.

A Nationwide Day of Service

The spirit of unity and generosity demonstrated in the aftermath of the attacks inspired the designation of September 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. Americans across the country now mark the day by volunteering, helping their neighbors, supporting charitable organizations, and participating in community projects.

You may choose to volunteer locally, participate in a memorial walk or event, support organizations that serve first responders and military families, donate to an organization that preserves the history of September 11, or simply perform an act of kindness in your own community.

For the 25th anniversary, the nonprofit 9/11 Day is organizing meal-packing events in more than 50 U.S. cities. Approximately 50,000 volunteers are expected to help pack 20 million meals for Americans facing hunger.

How to Observe Patriot Day

Whether you attend a 25th-anniversary event or observe the day closer to home, there are several meaningful ways to remember those who were lost.

• Fly the American Flag at Half-Staff: Patriot Day is a half-staff observance. Americans are encouraged to lower their flags at homes and businesses as a sign of respect and remembrance. If a flag cannot be lowered, a black mourning bow or mourning ribbon can be used.
• Observe a Moment of Silence: Take part in the national moment of silence beginning at 8:46 am Eastern Time, marking the moment American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower.
• Attend a Memorial Ceremony: Look for ceremonies organized by your community, local fire and police departments, veterans' organizations, or other groups.
• Learn and Share Their Stories: Read or listen to the stories of victims, survivors, first responders, and their families. For younger generations in particular, hearing these personal accounts helps ensure that the history of September 11 is not reduced to dates and statistics.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is also offering a free digital learning experience for students and teachers, featuring first-person accounts of the attacks and their aftermath. The program will be available beginning September 11, giving schools across the country another way to participate in the anniversary.

Remembering September 11, 25 Years Later

A quarter century has passed since September 11, 2001, but the significance of that day has not faded.

On this 25th anniversary, we remember the 2,977 lives taken that morning, honor those who responded with extraordinary courage, recognize those who continue to carry the effects of the attacks, and preserve their stories for generations who have no personal memory of that day.

Whether through lowering the American flag, observing a moment of silence, serving your community, attending a memorial, or taking the time to learn someone's story, Patriot Day provides an opportunity to remember.

Twenty-five years later, we remember those we lost, honor those who answered the call, and ensure that the stories of September 11 are never forgotten.

Sons of Liberty Flag

The Sons of Liberty was an early American political organization that fought for colonists' rights and, eventually, for independence. This group included the Founding Father Samuel Adams and other notable Americans like Christopher Gadsden, John Hancock, and Paul Revere. The first Sons of Liberty flag was made of wool and consisted of nine vertical red and white stripes. A later popular variant used 13 horizontal red and white stripes to represent the original 13 colonies.

Continental Flag

The Continental flag is a famous symbol of New England. Its canton features an eastern white pine. In John Trumbull’s painting “The Death of General Warren at the Battle of Bunker’s Hill, June 17, 1775,” the Continental flag is shown at the battle scene.

The flag’s red coloring and white canton come from the Red Ensign of Britain’s Royal Navy, which initially had the Cross of St George in the canton. Variants of these flags were also used by local American regiments, many of which had, by 1636, removed the cross. In 1686, a green pine tree was added to the canton of flags in New England.

Gadsden Flag

First designed in 1775 during the American Revolution, the Gadsden flag is one of the most iconic flags in American history. It is named for its creator, Christopher Gadsden, a brigadier general in the Continental Army. He was inspired by yellow drums used by the Marines that featured a rattlesnake and the motto “Dont tread on me”. The timber rattlesnake was chosen because it was already a popular political symbol at the time, representing the unity of the American colonies against British oppression.

The first iteration of this flag was given to Commodore Esek Hopkins, who flew it from his flagship, the USS Alfred. Hopkins soon became the commander-in-chief of the Continental Navy and regularly flew the Gadsden flag, leading to its widespread use.

First Navy Jack

In 1775, the Continental Navy flew the first American jacks with a striped design on ships in the Delaware River. This order was issued by Commodore Esek Hopkins, who would later fly the Commodore Perry flag.

Over time, a rattlesnake and the quote “Dont tread on me” were added to create the First Navy Jack Flag, drawing on the same political symbols of the Gadsden flag. In modern times, this flag was the official naval jack of the US Navy from 1975 to 1976 and 2002 to 2019. Today, the First Navy Jack is reserved for use on the longest active-status warship, which is currently the USS Blue Ridge.

Washington Cruisers Flag

Also known as the Pine Tree Flag, the Washington Cruisers flag was initially used by frigates under George Washington’s command during the American Revolution. The design was suggested by Washington’s secretary, Colonel Joseph Reed, and the flag was later designated as the official flag of the Massachusetts State Navy.

Pine trees were an important material in shipbuilding at the time due to their height and wood quality. In 1772, Americans in New Hampshire led the ‘Pine Tree Riot,’ a resistance against British appropriation of the pines for the Royal Navy.

Betsy Ross Flag

The Betsy Ross flag is the very first official flag of the United States. As per the Flag Act of 1777, the design of this flag has 13 white stars and 13 stripes to represent the original 13 colonies. The name of this flag comes from American upholsterer Betsy Ross, who lived in Philadelphia from 1752 to 1836. According to American legend, several Founding Fathers approached Ross and commissioned her to create the first official national flag. Furthermore, it is suggested that Ross changed the design of the stars from 6-pointed to 5-pointed, the shape the stars retain to this day.

Bennington Flag

The Bennington flag is closely associated with the Battle of Bennington, where it was supposedly flown on August 16, 1777. This flag has 13 red and white stripes, but unlike other US flags, the outermost stripes are white instead of red. In the canton, 13 stars are arranged around the number “76”, in reference to the year that the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Commodore Perry Flag

Known as the Commodore Perry flag, this flag was designed as a tribute to naval officer James Lawrence by his friend Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry. Lawrence was in command of the USS Chesapeake during the War of 1812 when a battle with the British HMS Shannon broke out. Mortally wounded by bullets, Lawrence’s last words were, “Don’t give up the ship!”. After his death, Perry ordered that the phrase be stitched onto his personal battle standard. The flag became famous in September 1813 when Perry’s flagship, the USS Lawrence, defeated British forces on Lake Erie.

Star-Spangled Banner

One of the most famous American flags is the Star-Spangled Banner, which inspired Francis Scott Key’s poem “Defence of Fort M’Henry.” This flag had 15 stars and stripes, representing the entry of Vermont and Kentucky into the Union.

In September of 1914, Fort Henry in Baltimore was preparing for a suspected attack by British forces. Major George Armistead, commander of the fort, ordered that a gigantic American flag be flown so the British could see it from far away.

The British Navy bombarded the fort for two days but could not pass into the harbor. On the morning of September 14th, Francis Scott Key saw the flag flying and knew that the American forces had won the battle. But Key was not in the fort - he was held captive on a British ship on the Patapsco River at the time. There, he wrote the famous poem that would later be retitled “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which became the US national anthem in 1931.

How many of these flags have you seen before? Were there any you had never heard of? The Stars and Stripes may be our nation’s most recognizable flag today, but plenty of others still have their share in American history and symbolism.

History of the Purple Heart Award

The Purple Heart was first created by General George Washington on August 7, 1782, and is considered the oldest military honor still awarded. Back then, it was called the Badge for Military Merit. This badge was awarded to soldiers for “any singularly meritorious action.”

General Washington personally awarded only three soldiers with the badge, although he authorized his subordinate officers to grant the badge as appropriate.

The Badge for Military Merit was never abolished, but it was not used again until after World War I. General MacArthur led efforts to reinstate the Purple Heart in honor of the bicentennial of George Washington’s birthday. He was successful, and on February 22, 1932, the Purple Heart was created to honor people injured or killed in combat.

The Design of the Modern Purple Heart

The original design created by George Washington was a purple heart-shaped piece of silk, with Merit stitched across the face and with a narrow silver binding and edging.

The modern design kept the key elements with some adjustments. The award features a gold-colored bust of George Washington against a purple heart-shaped field. The heart is edged in gold and affixed to a purple ribbon with white edging.

Because a soldier cannot receive more than one Purple Heart, subsequent combat injuries are acknowledged with a gold leaf cluster pinned to the ribbon.

How Many People Have Been Awarded the Purple Heart?

General MacArthur received the first Purple Heart after its reinstatement for injuries incurred during World War I. Like MacArthur, any soldier injured in any conflict who could prove they received wounds that required seeing a medic was awarded the Purple Heart, including veterans from World War I, the Civil War, and the Mexican War.

In the early days of the revived Purple Heart, accurate records were not kept of who received one, leaving only estimates. The US government notes that currently, over 2 million Purple Hearts have been awarded, with over 1 million Purple Hearts awarded in World War II.

How to Honor America’s Bravest on Purple Heart Day

Purple Heart Day is a chance to reflect on the noble sacrifices many have made for this country. Some ways to honor Purple Heart recipients include:

• Posts on Social Media 
• Visiting with Veterans 
• Decorating Graves of Purple Heart Recipients with Flowers 
• Talking to Veterans in Your Community 
• Service Projects to Help Veterans 
• Flying the American flag

We should always be mindful of the cost of freedom and express unwavering gratitude to those who made these sacrifices. Honoring Purple Heart recipients means embracing the responsibility of preserving the liberties they fought for and standing united in upholding the values that define our nation. May their courage forever serve as a guiding light, inspiring us to live lives that embody the spirit of the freedom they defended.

When is Korean War Veterans Armistice Day 20296?

Korean War Veterans Armistice Day takes place each year on July 27th. It was first formally observed in 1998, following the opening of the Korean War Veterans Memorial at the National Mall in 1995.

What is National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day?

On July 27th, 1953, negotiations concluded the end of fighting during the Korean War. Thus, the day’s name contains ‘armistice’ in reference to the document signed by delegates from both sides that described the conditions for the end of open warfare. A peace treaty was never signed, meaning the war never officially ended.

What was the Korean War?

Following the end of World War II, the USSR and the USA split Korea, which had been under Japan's control, into North and South. After failed attempts at unification, both sides formed independent governments.

The Korean War began on June 25, 1950, when North Korean troops invaded the South. In response, many United Nations nations sent reinforcements to defend South Korea, most of which came from the USA. During the conflict, China sent its own troops to assist in North Korea’s offensive. The last two years of the war were a stalemate, as neither side could successfully overtake the other.

In recognition that neither side could win, an armistice was agreed upon and signed in 1953. The armistice enabled the release of prisoners of war and established the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which still exists today.

Is National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day a Flag Flying Holiday?

Yes, Korean War Veterans Armistice Day is a flag-flying holiday in the United States. Government buildings, businesses, and individuals are encouraged to fly their American flags at full staff to honor the soldiers who bravely fought to defend South Korea. If you or a loved one served in the Korean War, you may want to additionally display the Korean War Veterans flag in honor.

The Korean War was a devastating conflict, with millions of service members and civilians killed across both sides. On July 27th this year, raise your flag in memory of all the lives that were lost and the sacrifices American troops made to defend a land that was not their own. 

The History of Independence Day

On the 4th of July, Americans reflect upon the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which marked the birth of a new nation founded on principles of freedom, liberty, and equality. This pivotal moment in history paved the way for the United States to become a beacon of democracy and a symbol of hope worldwide. The flag, with its thirteen stripes representing the original colonies and a field of stars representing the states, is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made to secure independence.

Reflecting on Freedom

Independence Day is a time for reflection and gratitude. On July 4th, Americans take a moment to appreciate the freedom and opportunities they have as citizens of the United States. It is a day to honor the sacrifices made by those who fought for independence and to recognize the ongoing efforts to uphold the values enshrined in the nation's founding principles. Many attend ceremonies or participate in community service projects that aim to give back to the community and support those in need.

Patriotic Displays

On the 4th of July, cities and towns across the country come alive with vibrant displays of patriotism. Fireworks are one of the most cherished traditions, lighting up the night sky with bursts of color and symbolizing the strength and resilience of the nation. Parades featuring marching bands, floats, and local organizations showcase community pride and pay homage to the country's heritage. American flags wave proudly, adorning homes, buildings, and streets, symbolizing unity and love for the nation.

As the 4th of July approaches, Americans eagerly prepare to celebrate the nation's independence. This holiday allows us to reflect on the historical significance of the day and the principles that guide our nation. It is a time to display our patriotism by proudly hoisting the American flag and participating in vibrant festivities that unite communities. As the fireworks illuminate the night sky, let us remember the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom and continue to strive for a more inclusive and united future. Happy Independence Day, and may the Stars and Stripes forever wave in our hearts.

Flag Day takes on even greater significance in 2026 as the United States celebrates its 250th birthday. This historic milestone marks two and a half centuries since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As communities across the country prepare for America’s Semiquincentennial celebrations, Flag Day offers a great opportunity to reflect on the history, values, and freedoms represented by the American flag.

What is Flag Day?

Flag Day commemorates the official adoption of the American flag by the Second Continental Congress during the Revolutionary War. National flags are considered an important symbol of a nation’s sovereignty and identity, and the creation of the US flag was an essential step in forming a state separate from the British Empire. Flag Day celebrates both the founding of an American identity and nationality, as well as the fight for independence.

When is Flag Day in the United States?

Flag Day occurs each year on June 14, the anniversary of the flag’s adoption in 1777.

Why is Flag Day on June 14?

On this day, the Second Continental Congress adopted the flag of the United States. During this session, the first Flag Act was passed, the definition of which read “that the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”

Since no specific example was initially given for the flag’s layout, colors, or proportions, many different versions of the American flag were used. One of the most famous in modern times is the Betsy Ross flag. The first steps towards standardization would not come until 1912.

How is Flag Day Celebrated?

The Flag Code has designated that the American flag be displayed on Flag Day. This part of the United States Code includes the Pledge of Allegiance and describes the appropriate ways to display the flag.

Some critical elements of the Flag Code include:

• The flag should not be displayed on a float in a parade except from a staff
• The flag should not be draped over cars or other vehicles
• The flag, when carried in a procession with other flags, should be on the marching right
• No other flag or pennant should be displayed above the flag of the United States of America
• The flag should be displayed in a way that is respectful and never touch anything that is beneath it, such as the ground, water, or merchandise
• The flag should be displayed in a place of prominence

To participate in this centuries-old tradition, quickly raise your flag at sunrise and ceremoniously lower it at sunset.

Who Started Flag Day?

The idea of a special day to recognize the flag itself, separate from Independence Day festivities, dates back to 1861, when Connecticut resident George Morris encouraged the city of Hartford to celebrate the flag’s birthday. However, another large-scale celebration would not occur until 1885. A schoolteacher in Wisconsin, Bernard J. Cigrand, arranged for his students at Stony Hill School to celebrate June 14th as the ‘Flag Birthday.’

Where Did Flag Day Start?

Cigrand moved to Chicago a year after his first Flag Day celebration and started promoting it in local newspapers. The practice began to spread to other states, including celebrations in 1888 in Pennsylvania. A year later, a New York City kindergarten teacher named George Balch planned a day of ceremonies and celebration on June 14, 1889, to honor the American flag. Two years later, the State Board of Education adopted the idea of an annual Flag Day celebration for all students in New York.

The idea continued to spread. Throughout the late 1890s, communities across the country held Flag Day celebrations, often at schools. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (Elks) designated June 14th as Flag Day in 1907. In 1911, the Elks made observing Flag Day a requirement for all their lodges.

The Elks also played a significant role in convincing President Woodrow Wilson to declare June 14, 1916, as Flag Day. On August 2, 1949, President Harry Truman signed an Act of Congress designating every June 14th as Flag Day.

Is Flag Day a Federal Holiday?

Flag Day is not an official federal holiday like Independence Day or Thanksgiving. Mail still gets delivered, and banks are open as usual. However, it is still a special day set aside to remember our most important national symbol.

Flag Day is a time to honor not only the flag of the United States of America but also all that it symbolizes, including honor, sacrifice, duty, independence, and liberty.

We’re proud to offer a wide variety of American-made flags to help you celebrate this Flag Day or to prepare for the even bigger festivities on July 4th. If you’re curious about what early American flags would have looked like during the first Flag Day events, check out our historical flag collection.

To commemorate this year’s once-in-a-generation anniversary, we’re proud to offer our America 250 flag collection. These specially designed flags celebrate 250 years of American history, heritage, and patriotism, making them a meaningful addition to homes, businesses, schools, and community events throughout this landmark year.

Whether you're flying the Stars and Stripes, displaying a commemorative America 250 flag, or simply learning more about our nation's history, Flag Day is a time to celebrate the enduring symbol that has united Americans for generations.

When that time comes, it’s important to retire your flag with the dignity it deserves. The U.S. Flag Code outlines several respectful ways to do this, each offering a meaningful farewell to a symbol that’s served its purpose.

Please note that the small team at Flags.com is unable to dispose of American flags. If you cannot perform a flag disposal ceremony yourself, please see our section below on where you can dispose of your flag.

How Do I Know If My Flag Should Be Retired?

As a living object, the American flag represents the United States itself. It is considered disrespectful to fly a flag that is heavily worn or damaged. Once your flag is overly faded, worn, or tattered beyond repair, it’s time to retire it.

How Do You Dispose of an American Flag?

Two primary methods for retiring an American flag are outlined in the Flag Code: burning and burial. Burning is recommended as the first choice, but should be avoided if lighting fires is unsafe in your region or if a participant has sensitive lungs. Please note that most flags are constructed from nylon or polyester, both of which release dangerous fumes during burning that shouldn’t be inhaled.

Where Can I Dispose of a Worn American Flag?

If you aren’t able to dispose of your worn American flag yourself due to fire restrictions or other constraints, several organizations can help! This list serves as a general suggestions guide. Be sure to contact the local branch of any listed group to confirm they provide flag disposal services in your region.

Try contacting your local:

• American Legion or VFW post
• Fire and police department
• Scout troop
• Trash and recycling center
• Public library or city government, which may operate a flag disposal box
• Funeral home that has a crematorium

You may also be able to find organizations that accept mailed-in American flags for disposal. Please keep in mind that due to space limitations, Flags.com is unable to offer this service.

Ceremonial Burning (with Optional Shredding)

Burning is the most common method of disposing of the US flag. Ensure you have enough time and outdoor space to burn your flag safely and completely. 

1. Fold your flag into the traditional triangle. If you don’t know how, watch the video and follow the step-by-step guide at the bottom of this article.
2. Assemble the bonfire and light it up. Once the fire is well established, carefully place the folded flag on it.
3. While the flag burns, take a moment to pay tribute to its service. Some suggestions include rendering the military salute, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, or singing the national anthem.
4. Once the flag is entirely burned, extinguish the fire and ensure no embers remain.

If you can’t build a large bonfire, you can instead shred the flag into pieces to burn on a smaller fire. Use scissors to cut off the canton (the blue rectangle with the stars), then separate each individual stripe. Burn each piece one by one.

Ceremonial Burial

Another proper way to dispose of the American flag is to bury it. We recommend this method if you can’t set up a fire safely.

1. Choose a burial site. If you aren’t sure where underground utilities are located in your area, call the national Dig Safe hotline at 811.
2. Dig a hole large enough for the box you’re using.
3. Fold your flag into the traditional triangle. If you don’t know how, look at the video and the step-by-step guide at the bottom of this article.
4. Place the folded flag into a wooden box and close it. 
5. Hold a ceremony for your flag’s burial. Some traditions include standing at attention or observing a moment of silence as the box is lowered into the ground.
6. Optionally mark the site with a stick flag or other patriotic symbol.

Burning vs Burial

Tell Us About Your Disposal!

Are you planning on retiring your flag? Share your flag disposal ceremony with us by tagging us at @flagsdotcom on Instagram and Facebook!

How to Correctly Fold the American Flag

Start

Step 1

Fold the lower striped section of the flag over the blue field.

Step 2

Folded edge is then folded over to meet the open edge.

Step 3

A triangular fold is then started by bringing the striped corner of the folded edge to the open edge.

Step 4

Outer point is then turned inward parallel with the open edge to form a second triangle.

Step 5

Triangular folding is continued until the entire length of the flag is folded in the triangular shape with only the blue field visible.

Completed!

Watch a Flag Retirement Ceremony by the American Legion!

What is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day 2026 is coming up, and it's important to remember that this holiday is more than just an extended weekend. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for the brave American heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice while honorably serving our country.

When is Memorial Day?

Every year this holiday is observed on the last Monday of May; this year, Memorial Day is on Monday, May 25, 2026. Before 1971, it was celebrated each year on May 30.

What is the History of Memorial Day?

Memorial Day was officially recognized as a federal holiday in 1971, but the traditions of this holiday go way back to the post-Civil War era. Originally, Memorial Day was known as Decoration Day and was a day to honor fallen soldiers by decorating their graves with flowers, wreaths, and American flags.

The tradition of decorating for Memorial Day began soon after the Civil War when relatives of troops who had died during the war would visit their graves. These commemorations were just local events at first, but they became a widespread phenomenon over the following years. Decoration Day became a national observance on May 30, 1868, when it was proclaimed by Illinois Representative John A. Logan. According to the US Department of Veteran Affairs, it is believed that this date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country.

Before World War I, Memorial Day was set aside to honor only those who fought and died in the Civil War. Following the First and Second World Wars, it became a national holiday of remembrance for all military personnel who have lost their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Decoration Day was officially renamed Memorial Day in 1971 and changed to the last Monday in May by an act of Congress.

Flying the American Flag at Half-Staff

Remember to fly your American flag proudly on Memorial Day this year, as it is a national flag-flying holiday steeped in over a century of tradition!

The American flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon, then raised briskly to the top of the staff until sunset in honor of the sacrifices made by our nation’s troops. If you are unable to lower your flag to half-staff, you can still show your respect by hanging a mourning bow or ribbon at the top of your American flag.

You might also want to fly a Memorial Day flag alongside the American flag to honor those who have served. Many individuals and organizations fly the POW/MIA flag in remembrance of those who were taken as prisoners of war or went missing in action. There are other Memorial Day flags you might see, such as the Flag for the Fallen and the Honor & Remember flag. Alternatively, if you are honoring someone specific, you may want to consider flying the flag of their military branch.

3 Ways to Honor Memorial Day Traditions

1. One Minute of Silence at 3:00 pm

While many celebrate this day with a family cookout or a trip to the beach, it's important to remember that these freedoms were made possible by the individuals who sacrificed their lives as members of the Armed Forces. At 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, Americans are encouraged to take a moment of silence. This is the National Moment of Remembrance, which was established by an act of Congress in 2000.

2. Decorating Graves

Pay your respects at the graves of friends and family who served or at a Civil War, WWI, or WWII cemetery if there is one near you. Adding flowers and flags to graves was the initial act that led to the founding of Decoration Day and remains an important tradition today. You can decorate graves with flowers, grave markers, American stick flags, and military stick flags.

3. Go to a Parade or Memorial Day Ceremony

Take part in local ceremonies and observations to honor fallen troops from your community. If you're an event organizer, consider getting a bunch of American stick flags to hand out to attendees.

Memorial Day vs Veterans Day

Memorial Day is specifically meant to honor US troops who died during their service. Veterans Day celebrates all American veterans, especially those who are still living today. For more information, read our blog post about Veterans Day, its history, and modern traditions.

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What is Armed Forces Day?

Armed Forces Day is an annual holiday in the United States that celebrates all US military branches. It’s intended to be a day on which American citizens come together to thank those serving in the Armed Forces for their work and sacrifices. 

President Harry Truman and Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson established the holiday on August 31, 1949, and it was observed for the first time on May 20, 1950. The holiday also represented the consolidation of the separate military branches—the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard—under the Department of Defense. Originally, Armed Forces Day was meant to replace the individual holidays of each branch; however, most service members and military installations celebrate their holidays to this day.

Armed Forces Day was codified as a national holiday by President John F. Kennedy in 1961. On May 15, 2020, the newly created Space Force was formally honored as part of the Armed Forces. 

When is Armed Forces Day?

National Armed Forces Day occurs each year on the third Saturday of May. It’s one of the closing holidays for Armed Forces Week, which starts on the second Saturday and ends on the third Sunday. 

How is Armed Forces Day Celebrated?

Armed Forces Day is commonly celebrated at military bases and academies, including private ceremonies and open houses for the public. Some divisions also host air shows, displays, receptions, and parades. 

The longest-running Armed Forces Day parade was founded on May 15, 1948, two years before the holiday itself. The parade takes place each year in Bremerton, Washington, the location of Naval Base Kitsap. 

One purpose of Armed Forces Day is to inform the American public about how the branches have progressed and what they are doing to protect the US. A common practice is for bases to host displays exhibiting innovative breakthroughs produced by the military and cutting-edge technology under development.

To show your support for the US Armed Forces at home, consider reaching out to service members and veterans in your community to thank them for their service. You can also express your patriotism and pride in America’s military by joining the long-running tradition of flying the American flag on this holiday.

Armed Forces Day is a meaningful reminder of the dedication and bravery of those who serve in the United States military. Whether through participating in events, ceremonies, or simply by flying the American flag, this holiday gives every citizen a chance to express gratitude and respect for the service members who protect our country.