Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971.

Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.

Photos: Top left – ‘Ever Forward’ – This Monument is dedicated to the Soldiers of the 116th Infantry Regimential Team, 29th Infantry Division that landed on and took “OMAHA BEACH, June 6, 1944 D-Day. Their sacrifice as part of Operation OVERLORD, opened the road to the Liberation of Europe and V-E Day.

Top right – Les Braves II –

Les Braves II: At Water’s Edge was dedicated on the grounds of The War Memorial Association on May 25, 2023. The 50-foot-wide and 25-foot-tall sculpture is the official world-wide twin of Les Braves in Normandy, France, originally created for the 60th anniversary of the D-Day invasion and sculpted by French artist Anilore Banon.

The first sculpture, located in the Vierville-sur-Mer on Omaha Beach, has the same three stainless steel wings and towers which stand proudly as a lasting tribute to the western Allies that landed on Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944 during World War II. Drawn by our mission, Banon was delighted to recreate her significant sculpture in an American location, intentionally solidifying the connection between the two nations who fought and died together in World War II.

• The Wings of Hope
  So that the spirit which carried these men on June 6, 1944 continues to inspire us, reminding us that together it is always possible to change the future.

• Rise, Freedom!
  So that the example of those who rose against barbarity, helps us remain standing strong against all forms of inhumanity.

• The Wings of Fraternity
  So that this surge of brotherhood always reminds us of our responsibility towards others as well as ourselves.

Bottom left and center

The World War II Pointe du Hoc Ranger Monument was erected by the French to honor elements of the American Second Ranger Battalion under the command of Lt. Col. James E. Rudder. During the American assault of Omaha and Utah beaches on June 6, 1944, these U.S. Army Rangers scaled the 100-foot cliff and seized the German artillery pieces that could have fired on the American landing troops at Omaha and Utah beaches. At a high cost of life, they successfully defended against determined German counterattacks. The monument consists of a grey granite pylon positioned atop a German concrete bunker with tablets at its base inscribed in French and English.

Bottom right – Normandy American Cemetery in France, a hallowed ground where nearly 9,400 American service members are buried.