Memorial Day for many is a time for family, barbecues, shopping, and weekend getaways. But, many folks are also remembering the fallen men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary John Scocos said many troops have died for their country. “The service members that made this country what it is today, many have paid the ultimate price for serving their country.”
Since the Civil War, nearly 27,000 Wisconsin troops have been killed in the line of duty.
The recently identified remains of a La Crosse soldier was buried Thursday in Arlington National Cemetery … 65 years after he fought and died in North Korea.
“That’s a great tribute,” Scocos said, “especially on Memorial Day weekend and finally closure for that family.”
Only one percent of the current population is involved in the armed forces. That’s why, Scocos said, it’s especially important to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Americans are asked to take a moment of silent contemplation for the National Moment of Remembrance at 3:00pm local time to remember the war dead.
The Wisconsin Veterans Museum on the Capitol Square is open Memorial Day.