New York Among Top Picks for Memorial Day Visits to Military Cemeteries

I hear that there is something special about walking through a military cemetery during the Memorial Day weekend. I need to visit Arlington National Cemetery to honor one of my best friends, John Priestner, who paid the ultimate price during Iraqi Freedom in 2006. I can't believe that my friend has gone almost 20 years already.

The rows of headstones at national cemeteries aren't just spots for resting, they tell stories of people dedicated to serving, like my friend, John. These places bring history up close and personal. When you see the names, dates, and ages, it's a reminder that freedom didn't come easy and it isn't cheap.

A survey of 3,000 Americans asked which military cemeteries they would most want to visit on Memorial Day '25 and two of the top cemeteries are in New York.

Long Island National Cemetery

Coming in at #6, the Long Island National Cemetery is a somber reminder of the countless lives lost while in service. The sight of flags placed in the ground on Memorial Day is a touching tribute to the fallen.

Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery

Coming in at #7 is the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery. Near the Battle of Saratoga grounds, this cemetery brings the past and present sacrifices together. The setting and heartfelt Memorial Day ceremonies make it a place of quiet gratitude.

While we’re getting ready for Memorial Day, let's take the time to remember those who gave everything for our freedom. These national cemeteries are memorials to the lives men and woman lived in service. Take a moment this weekend during your barbeques and picnics, and honor their sacrifice. Paying tribute to our fallen heroes is a meaningful way to keep their memory alive.