At MOAA, we embrace the full meaning of Memorial Day.

For more than two centuries, untold numbers of Americans have answered the call to duty. Freedom is our cause, but freedom does not come free, and many paid the ultimate price. They truly deserve to be remembered. The America we know would not be the same were it not for the men and women we honor on Memorial Day.

We also pay tribute to the unsung heroes and heroines of our nation’s defense—the spouses, children and families of our servicemen and women. You might not have worn our nation’s uniform, nor carried a rifle on your shoulder, but you have carried the weight of worry. Through your personal sacrifice in time of war and peace, you, too, have served our nation, and we salute you.

The video message below illustrates the purpose for pausing for one minute, wherever you may be today, in an act of gratitude for those who have given their lives in service to our nation and for the sacrifices of the family members who were left behind.

Sincerely,