President Biden Honors Fallen U.S. Troops at Arlington National Cemetery on Memorial Day

On Monday, President Joe Biden paid tribute to the fallen U.S. troops who died fighting for their country in a traditional wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremony marked the federal holiday of Memorial Day, which honors America’s fallen service members.

The President was joined by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who had just reached a final agreement with Biden on a deal that would raise the nation’s debt limit and provide additional relief for Americans affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

During his remarks, Biden said, “We’re here to once again stand amid the rows and rows of stones that bear witness to the brave women and men who served and sacrificed for our freedom and for our future, those who died so that our nation might live.”

The President had a moment of contemplation in front of the wreath, which was adorned with flowers and a red, white and blue bow, and later bowed his head in prayer. He also acknowledged the pain of those who have lost loved ones, saying that the sense of loss is “particularly sharp” on Memorial Day.

The ceremony concluded with a 21-gun salute and the playing of “Taps.” Biden’s visit to the cemetery was his first since taking office in January. He is the fourth consecutive president to honor the fallen at Arlington National Cemetery on Memorial Day.