National Memorial Day Parade, Washington, DC

The National Memorial Day Parade will take place Monday, May 27, 2013, at 2 p.m., in Washington, D.C., and the SAR has once again been accepted as a participant in this important, televised event. Participants in this year’s parade include Gary Sinise, Trace Adkins, J.R. Martinez (grand marshal), Miss America 2013, and marching bands from around the country.

The parade will feature a very special tribute to those who have served and sacrificed from the American Revolution, to our current generation of service members, a commemoration of the 70th anniversary of World War II, 60th anniversary of the Korean War, and 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, and a special salute to the legacy of the United States Army from 1775 to today, featuring distinguished Army veterans, The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” and hundreds of U.S. Army and Army Reserve Soldiers.

The SAR has been represented in this parade every year since it was re-instituted in 2005. Our unit is led by members of our Color Guards from many states and includes a contingent of members in blue blazers and khakis — straw hats are optional. This year, “camp followers” in period dress are invited to bring up the rear. All compatriots are invited to participate to honor the men and women who have given their lives in service to our country.

Details on the reporting time and location will be available closer to the date of the parade, but we usually assemble between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. on the National Mall.

I hope you’ll be able to join your fellow compatriots at this year’s parade. If you plan to participate, or if you think you might participate, please complete the release form and send it to me by May 8th.

Sincerely,

Michael J. Elston

National Color Guard
Youth and Educational Programs