The National Moment of Remembrance is a voluntary one-minute pause at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to remember Americans who died while serving in the U.S. military. People can participate wherever they are—in a home, at a family gathering, at a memorial or quietly on their own.
What time is it in 2027?
Memorial Day in 2027 falls on Monday, May 31. The moment of remembrance is at 3:00 p.m. in your own local time zone, not simultaneously at one nationwide clock time. The pause takes about one minute.
Why 3 p.m. instead of noon?
The selected time invites remembrance during a part of the holiday when people may otherwise be occupied with family plans and outdoor activities. The point is to make time for the day’s central purpose even during a busy long weekend.
How to take part respectfully
- At 3 p.m. local time, pause for about 60 seconds if it is safe and practical.
- Think about service members who died, their loved ones, and the meaning of their sacrifice.
- You may remain silent, listen to ‘Taps,’ or quietly share a remembrance with family.
- If you are driving or doing something hazardous, keep safety first; choose a safe way to acknowledge the moment.
Is participation required?
No. The observance is an invitation rather than a mandatory ritual. People honor the holiday in many ways: visiting a cemetery, attending a public ceremony, volunteering or speaking with family about the people being remembered.
Where did the observance come from?
In December 2000, the National Moment of Remembrance Act was enacted to encourage remembrance on Memorial Day. The Department of Veterans Affairs describes the one-minute, 3 p.m. local-time observance as part of the modern holiday tradition.
Is this the same as lowering the flag to half-staff?
No. On Memorial Day, the traditional U.S. flag observance on a stationary flagpole is half-staff from dawn until noon, then full-staff until sunset. That is separate from the 3 p.m. moment. Memorial Day honors those who died during military service; Veterans Day honors everyone who served.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need to be at a cemetery at 3 p.m.?
No. It is intended to be observed wherever people happen to be.
How long is the moment of silence?
One minute is the commonly recommended length.
Is the National Moment of Remembrance only for veterans?
No. Anyone may take part, regardless of whether they have served or have a military family connection.
Official sources: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Memorial Day overview and National Cemetery Administration holiday history.
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