Shiloh Battlefield to Host Memorial Day Weekend Events Highlighting America’s 250th Birthday
From May 23 to 25, 2026, Shiloh National Military Park will host a weekend of special events and commemorative activities to honor the memory of American military service members who gave their lives in service to the nation. Visitors can experience live demonstrations, historic reenactments, and a solemn Memorial Day ceremony during a three‑day commemoration at Shiloh National Military Park.
“This annual Memorial Day event provides the opportunity to reflect upon the personal sacrifices made by our nation’s military service members and their families in defense of our freedoms,” said Acting Superintendent Randy Martin.
Living historians will present a U.S. Military History Timeline on the front lawn of the Shiloh Battlefield Visitor Center on May 23 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and on May 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering visitors the chance to interact with living history interpreters and explore the military experience across generations. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, the programs will also feature Revolutionary War weapons and equipment—including an 18th‑century swivel gun—with live firing demonstrations highlighting the evolution of American shoulder arms. These demonstrations will take place on both days at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Shiloh National Military Park will officially commemorate Memorial Day on May 25 with a remembrance ceremony at Shiloh National Cemetery. The one-hour ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. and will include a military flag presentation, patriotic music, a keynote address, a firing salute and the playing of Taps.This year’s keynote speaker will be Brigadier General Harold E. Lomenick of the Mississippi National Guard. Attendees are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets to one of the longest continually running Memorial Day services in West Tennessee.
In commemoration of America’s 250th birthday, the park will lay a wreath at the grave of Shiloh National Cemetery’s sole Revolutionary War veteran, Private George S. Ross. A Patriot soldier who served in the Southern Campaign and fought in key engagements such as Rocky Mount and Hanging Rock, Ross later settled in Tennessee, where he received a land grant and pension for his service. He died in 1846 and is buried at Shiloh National Cemetery, remembered as one of the citizen soldiers who helped secure American independence.
Following the ceremony, park rangers will offer free guided programs and demonstrations throughout the afternoon.
Celebrating Our Nation’s 250th Anniversary
The National Park Service is playing a leading role in the celebration and commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American independence. Throughout the country, national parks will host hundreds of 250th anniversary programs, events and exhibits, including many sites with direct connections to the formation of the country.
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