Nearly 1,500 soldiers assigned to the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as "The Old Guard," placed U.S. flags at over 260,000 headstones and niche columns across Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, for the 77th annual "Flags In" ceremony, May 22, 2025.
The predawn mission, beginning at 4 a.m. despite cold, misty conditions, marked the official start of Memorial Day observances at the cemetery. Soldiers meticulously positioned each flag one boot length from each marker, honoring service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
For those who gave everything in service to our country, this is our way of showing that they will never be forgotten.” — Army Staff Sgt. Jacob Holmes
"For those who gave everything in service to our country, this is our way of showing that they will never be forgotten," said Army Staff Sgt. Jacob Holmes, public affairs team leader for the "Old Guard," which has placed flags at the cemetery since 1948.
Tomb sentinels also laid flags at the Tomb of the Unknown soldier as part of the observance.
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