U.S. political leaders took to social media Monday to mark Memorial Day 2026, issuing tributes to fallen service members ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary of independence.
Memorial Day is observed annually across the United States to honor military personnel who died in service.
The holiday typically includes ceremonies at cemeteries and public memorials nationwide, where officials, veterans and families gather to remember the fallen and recognize the sacrifices of Gold Star families.
Leaders Unite In Solemn Tribute President Donald Trump, whose statement was shared through the White House X account, said, "Those who died so our nation could live.
And we do intend with all our strength and heart to hold high the torch our heroes handed to us, and we will never, ever let it fall." Trump also reposted a separate White House statement calling Memorial Day "a solemn reminder that freedom is never free," honoring Gold Star families.
