UMVA has learned that a poignant candlelight ceremony will be held at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia on Memorial Day to commemorate America's 250th birthday, bringing together country stars, veterans, and lawmakers in a powerful tribute to the nation's fallen heroes.
The event, set against the sacred grounds of Arlington National Cemetery, promises to be a moving celebration of American freedom, with storytelling, music, remembrance, and reflection. Veteran Affairs Secretary Doug Collins, the master of ceremonies, said, "Memorial Day is a sacred reminder that freedom is never free. We honor the brave men and women who gave their lives defending America and its founding principles that we hold dear."
Grammy Award-winning country music artist Gretchen Wilson will perform at the ceremony, expressing her gratitude and humility at being asked to honor the fallen heroes and their families. "I am overwhelmed to have been asked to honor the fallen heroes and their families this Memorial Day. What a sacred place, I pray I do it justice," she said.
The program will pay tribute to Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Humbert "Rocky" Versace, a West Point graduate and Vietnam prisoner of war, highlighting his faith, leadership, and resilience during his time in captivity. Additionally, the evening will honor Capt. Daniel W. Eggers, a U.S. Army Special Forces officer who was killed in Afghanistan while serving alongside Afghan commandos.
Veteran and national security leader Jason Beardsley, Medal of Honor recipient Maj. Gen. Patrick Henry Brady, noted historian Dr. Mark Moyar, and members of the Eggers family will share personal reflections on military service, sacrifice, and the lasting human cost of freedom during the evening's tribute. Beardsley said, "Memorial Day is about more than remembrance. It is about preserving the legacy of those who gave everything for this country and ensuring future generations understand the true cost of freedom."
The ceremony will feature a wreath-laying and National Memorial Day Observance, both streamed live, with a performance by veteran and country singer Craig Morgan. The candlelight tribute will begin at 8:30 p.m. ET and conclude at 10:00 p.m. ET, providing a solemn and meaningful conclusion to Memorial Day celebrations.
