Empire State Review Team 
New York City commemorated Memorial Day 2025 with a poignant ceremony aboard the USS Intrepid, honoring the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation. The event, held on May 26, took place at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum on Pier 86 in Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan. This annual tradition, now in its 37th year, serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel throughout the nation’s history.
The ceremony began promptly at 10:00 a.m., featuring a naval color guard that presented the American flag to the assembled crowd. Mayor Eric Adams delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the city’s unwavering support for veterans and active-duty service members. “We need to continue to let people know that this is the greatest city in the world with the greatest defensive Armed Forces in the world,” Mayor Adams stated. “There is no one that does it any better than us. We need future generations to understand that.”
Following the mayor’s remarks, a wreath-laying ceremony was conducted to honor fallen heroes. Four ceremonial wreaths were placed into the Hudson River, symbolizing the nation’s gratitude and remembrance. The ceremony also included a bell-tolling segment, adding to the solemnity of the occasion.
One of the most moving moments of the ceremony was the unfurling of a 100-foot American flag on the deck of the Intrepid. Veterans and military personnel collaborated to stretch the flag across the flight deck, creating a powerful visual tribute to those who have served and sacrificed. The ceremony concluded with the playing of “Taps,” a traditional military bugle call that honors the fallen. Additionally, a flyover by Navy fighter jets was scheduled to take place, adding to the day’s tributes.
The Memorial Day ceremony at the Intrepid Museum was part of the broader Fleet Week New York celebrations, which ran from May 21 to May 27, 2025. This year’s Fleet Week marked the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, with the theme “Honoring the Past, Defending the Future: 250 Years of Sea Service Excellence.” The week-long event included ship tours, military demonstrations, and public performances, culminating in the Memorial Day ceremony.
In addition to the ceremony, the city offered special discounts and free admissions to various cultural institutions for veterans and active-duty military personnel. Mayor Adams announced partnerships with 34 venues across the five boroughs, including museums, gardens, zoos, and restaurants, to provide these benefits from May 24 through May 26. This initiative aimed to honor and support the city’s military community during Memorial Day weekend.
The Intrepid Museum’s Memorial Day ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel throughout the nation’s history. It provides an opportunity for the public to come together in remembrance and gratitude, ensuring that the legacy of those who served and sacrificed is preserved for future generations.
For more information about the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum and its programs, visit their official website.
