Honor Your Veterans At The Rock Island Arsenal Memorial Day Ceremony

The Rock Island National Cemetery in Rock Island, Illinois, will be hosting a Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 29 at 10:45 a.m. If you plan to attend, we have all of the essential information.

Parking

Main parking will be at the Memorial Park parking lot off East Street, across from Building 102. (There will be no parking at the cemetery for the ceremony, except for wheelchair-bound individuals)

Transportation

Buses will be available to transport people from the parking lot to the cemetery between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.  (It is recommended to arrive early to ensure sufficient time for parking and transportation)

Keynote Speaker

Mike Matson, the Mayor of the City of Davenport and a retired sergeant major and U.S. Army Ranger.

Honor Guard

The Veterans Service Organization honor guard will be conducted by Moline American Legion 246.

Musical Performances

The Center for Active Seniors Inc.'s Golden Tones Choir will perform musical selections throughout the ceremony.

National Anthem

The National Anthem will be performed by Rachel Hoffman.

Invocation

Rev. Scott Culley from the Faith Walk World Outreach Center will deliver the invocation.

National Salute

The 2nd Battalion, 123rd Field Artillery Regiment from Milan, Illinois, will conduct the national salute.

Significance of Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a day to honor fallen service members who gave their lives in defense of the nation and its values. It is distinct from Veterans Day, which recognizes living military veterans.

Historical Background

Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, was established in 1868 to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers. It was moved to the last Monday in May by the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1971.

Contact Information

For more information, call 309-782-2094.