FLORENCE-Memorial Day is a federal holiday, commemorated each year on the last Monday in May. It is a day
for remembering the American service members who gave their lives in defense of our country.
The 2024 Florence-Lauderdale Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday,
May 27, in Veterans Memorial Park at 301 Veterans Park Drive. The theme is “Freedom is Not
Free, Some Paid All.” (The number of attendees is not restricted; however, seating is limited.
Standing room is available. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs.) In the event of inclement
weather, the ceremony will be held at the Florence-Lauderdale Coliseum, located at 702 Veterans
Drive in Florence. The ceremony may also be viewed online on the City of Florence Facebook page.
America owes its Fallen Heroes a debt of gratitude. Attending the ceremony is an excellent way of
showing this gratitude. Family members of Fallen Heroes are especially encouraged to attend the
ceremony in memory of their loved ones. Veterans are also encouraged to attend in honor of their
fellow service members. Veterans and Gold Star family members in attendance will be recognized
collectively and thanked for their service.
The Ceremony will feature several events, including a wreath-laying ceremony, the playing of Taps,
prayer, and other special remembrances. The program will also include honors to our nation,
including the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of both the National Anthem and “All Gave
Some, Some Gave All.”
A special ceremony brochure will be distributed to attendees. The booklet will outline program
events and display colorful Memorial Day pictures. After the ceremony, the Fallen Heroes
Memorial will be open for everyone to visit.
Media Release/Elizabeth Henley/City of Florence
