American Legion Encourages Virtual Memorial Day Events

Normally, this is the time of year when we'd be advising you of upcoming Memorial Day events in the UK and Europe. Memorial Day is May 25, but with the current coronavirus lockdown and uncertainty over when social distancing restrictions may be lifted, most events can't yet be finalized with certainty. However, to make sure Memorial Day and its important message remain accessible to all, the American Legion are encouraging Americans to mark the ocassion virtually.

On a bulletin posted on the American Legion's website, the organization for US War Veterans wrote that "The coronavirus pandemic already has led to the cancellation of Memorial Day events, including some coordinated by American Legion posts. As social distancing has become the best defense against the virus, more cancellations are expected, limiting how Americans can honor those who died while in service to our nation. Because of that, The American Legion will provide a safe venue to observe Memorial Day: social media. We’re asking our American Legion Family members – and those outside of the organization – to share with us the names of those you will honor and remember on Memorial Day. Our plan is to compile a list and then begin sharing them regularly via our social media channels over Memorial Day Weekend."

The Legion say that all they require to list virtual events is:

- The servicemember’s name, along with the submitter’s relationship to the servicemember;
- Year entering and year leaving the military;
- Branch of service; and
- A photo of the servicemember, either in uniform or civilian clothes.

Submissions and events will be listed via the American Legion's social media profiles (Facebook and Twitter) starting May 22. Details on how to submit an event are available by going to https://www.legion.org/honor/248724/help-us-observe-memorial-day-virtually

>> MORE NEWS