How to Participate in the National Moment of Remembrance on Memorial Day

The National Moment of Remembrance is a moment of silence that is observed nationwide in honor of those soldiers who lost their lives in the service of the country and the cause of freedom. Held at 3 p.m. (local time), the nation calls on all Americans to mark this moment with 1 minute of silence regardless of what they are doing at the time. It's possible to participate in the National Moment of Remember on Memorial Day from wherever you are.

Things You'll Need

• National Moment of Remembrance posters

Instructions

1. Post information about the National Moment of Remembrance on your personal or company website during the days leading up to Memorial Day.

2. Remind others to participate in the National Moment of Remembrance ahead of time. A friendly email or memo to friends and co-workers in the days before Memorial Day can bring the moment of silence to the minds of others.

3. Send a reminder to friends and family on Memorial Day. A quick text message 15 minutes before 3 p.m. can remind others and pass along your Memorial Day greetings.

4. Suggest a collective observance of the National Moment of Remembrance if you are gathered with others. Whether you are at a barbecue or in a retail store, ask the host or the store manager to make an announcement when 3 pm rolls around.

5. Observe a moment of complete silence at 3 p.m. local time. It's customary to bow your head out of respect as well.

6. Follow the moment of silence with a "Roll Call of Remembrance" if you or others in attendance have friends or family members who have lost their lives while serving the Armed Forces. State the names of the fallen soldiers and the conflict that cost them their lives.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are driving at the time of the National Moment of Remembrance, turn on your headlights and turn off the radio to participate the moment of silence. Take note of other drivers who have on their headlights as well.

• Fly an American flag on Memorial Day to show your support of the Armed Forces and to pay tribute to fallen heroes. Consult the American Legion for information about how to properly fly a flag if you are unfamiliar with the practice (see Resources below).

• You can download and post a National Moment of Remembrance poster in your office or place of business to remind co-workers and customers (see Resources below).

• Include text from past Memorial Day speeches in your email reminder or on your website, or include an original Memorial Day message for a personal touch.

Resources

• Flag information from the American Legion
• Free National Moment of Remembrance poster