SAN ANTONIO – The Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery honored servicemen and women Wednesday morning with a private wreath-laying ceremony.
The ceremony included brief remarks, a moment of silence and the playing of taps.
WATCH: Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery holds Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremony
Wednesday’s ceremony was closed to the public due to the coronavirus pandemic, according to a news release. The traditional public Memorial Day ceremony has been canceled this year.
Memorial Day public ceremony at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery will not be held this year
Instead, veterans, servicemembers, family members and the community were encouraged to view Wednesday’s ceremony via local media. View the full ceremony in the video player above.
“This year, by necessity, will be different from past Memorial Day observances,” said Aubrey David, Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery director. “While we cannot hold a large Memorial Day program as was typical in years past, we will still honor veterans and service members with the dignity and respect they have earned through their service and sacrifice.”
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The cemetery will remain open on Memorial Day weekend for visitation.
Visitors are asked to adhere to health and safety guidelines, maintain physical distancing, and to consider visiting Friday, Saturday, or Sunday to avoid possible crowds on Monday. Families may continue the tradition of placing flowers and small American flags at their veteran’s gravesite.