Chief of the National Guard Bureau

Summer is a wonderful time of celebration, recreation, and adventure, offering a well-deserved opportunity to take time off and recharge. This summer is especially significant as we are coming off a period of intensive operations and preparing to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our great Nation. By staying aware, remaining proactive, and looking out for one another, you can enjoy a fun, memorable, and safe summer with the people you love. Stay safe, stay ready!

Yesterday, Gen. Thomas Carden, vice chief of the National Guard Bureau, delivered remarks at the Memorial Day Parade in our Nation’s capital. As he said, Memorial Day is a humbling occasion that finds many of us struggling to find the right words to honor sacrifice that’s hard to even comprehend. The reality is those words simply do not exist. However, our actions can honor our fallen where mere words fall short. Liberty is not freely gained or preserved; it must be continually safeguarded.

2026 National Memorial Day Parade [OFFICIAL STREAM] The 2026 National Memorial Day Parade presented by Boeing LIVE on C...

Check out some of the best photos from around the National Guard this week!
See more: https://www.flickr.com/photos/thenationalguard/albums/72177720329258376

As we approach Memorial Day, we pause to honor the quiet courage of the men and women who gave their last full measure of devotion for our Nation. Let us channel our gratitude into dedication to the principles for which they fought. On this sacred day, we offer our deepest thanks, and we renew our promise to never forget their names, their valor, or their ultimate sacrifice for our country.