America Marks Vietnam War’s 50th Anniversary


While Memorial Day weekend marks the start of summer, beach traffic and the Indianapolis 500, the federal holiday began as a commemoration of those killed in the Civil War. Today, Memorial Day honors all in the military who have fallen in the service of the United States. Remember that as you fire up the grill, and take time to honor them in your own way.

Friday May 25th 2012

9 p.m. Candlelight Vigil – Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Saturday May 26th 2012

9 a.m. Thunder Alley Opens-the official vendor site for Rolling Thunder is located at 22nd Street and Constitution Avenue across from The Wall. It will open at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday and will be selling the official Rolling Thunder T-shirt, patches, pins, food, leather, and many other interesting goods. (For more information see Thunder Alley page)

11:45 a.m.-8:00 p.m. C.A.M.M.O. Presents a Tribute to Rolling Thunder XXV Musical guests and special guest speakers appearing on stage at the Henry Bacon ball field include: Ray Manzo-founder of Rolling Thunder Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band Other special guests to be announced

Also on stage: Unveiling of the Rolling Thunder XXV Tribute Bikes Custom-built in honor of each branch of the United States Armed Forces

Sunday May 27th 2012

6 a.m. Reveille – Wake up call for riders taking place in the Rolling Thunder XXV First Amendment Demonstration Run. Bikes begin rallying in the North and South Pentagon parking lots at 7 a.m. for a noon departure.

12 noon Rolling Thunder First Amendment Demonstration Run After the Run, riders are directed to West Potomac Park where they will convene in the Mall area to pay tribute to their fallen brothers and sisters

Monday May 28th 2012 Memorial Day

11 a.m. Wreath Laying Ceremony -Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery

2 p.m. Annual Memorial Day Observance at The Vietnam Veterans Memorial To the fallen service men and women of the Vietnam War. This year’s service by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund will include a special Commencement Ceremony marking the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War.

2 p.m. National Memorial Day Parade

3 p.m. National Moment of Remembrance – one minute of silence in honor of those who have given their life for our country

The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration National Announcement & Proclamation Ceremony

(01:00 PM – 03:30 PM)

May 28, 2012

01:00 PM – 03:30 PM

The Memorial Day 2012 ceremony beginning at 1 p.m. at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall will begin the national commemoration of the Vietnam War’s 50th anniversary. The Department of Defense’s Office of Commemorations is working with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and National Park Service for a special and inspiring ceremony to thank and honor America’s Vietnam Veterans and their families for their service, valor and sacrifice.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *