Every March 25, Medal of Honor Recipients mark National Medal of Honor Day by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C., in remembrance of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country. They also hold the Citizen Honor Awards ceremony, where they recognize citizens from across the nation that best exemplify the Medal’s values of courage and self-sacrifice.

Medal of Honor Day became a recurring National Day on March 1, 2007, when Congress passed a Concurrent Resolution to “foster public appreciation and recognition of Medal of Honor Recipients.” Congress chose March 25 because it was the anniversary of when the first Medals of Honor were presented to six Union soldiers during the American Civil War in 1863.

The public is invited to view the wreath-laying ceremony in accordance with the regulations at Arlington National Cemetery. Please note that due to COVID, these regulations may be slightly different than normal. Those looking to attend are encouraged to check the Cemetery’s website for any visitor information for the day of the ceremony here.