Memorial Day services in the Tampa Bay area and how to watch them
by WFTS Digital Staff
TAMPA, Fla. — Monday is Memorial Day and we want to honor the fallen military troops, military veterans as well as those on active duty. However, with the current COVID-19 situation, that will look a little different this year.
Several ceremonies will be taking place virtually this year. Here is a list of the events planned for the day, and how you can watch them:
BAY PINES - 10 a.m.
Guest speakers for the event include local leaders from the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, St. Petersburg VA Regional Office, and Bay Pines National Cemetery. Ret. Col. Thomas G. Bowman, USMC will provide the keynote address.
WATCH HERE
SARASOTA NATIONAL CEMETERY - 10 a.m.
For the first time since its opening, Sarasota National Cemetery will host its annual Memorial Day Tribute virtually. An original video production premieres during the streaming tribute. It gives a glimpse into the lives of 15 fallen service members through personal stories told by Gold Star mothers and other relatives of patriots that made the ultimate sacrifice. A new website for posting love notes and letters of appreciation to the 3.7 million veterans laid to rest in national cemeteries will be announced during the virtual tribute.
WATCH HERE
FLORIDA NATIONAL CEMETERY - 11 a.m.
Please join us in honoring our fallen warriors. Special guest speaker Major General James Hartsell will be delivering remarks.
We will be conducting honors, the pledge, and benediction.
WATCH HERE