Since 1949, the City and County of Honolulu has worked with numerous veteran, community, and educational organizations to help facilitate the time-honored Memorial Day ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl. The ceremony is open to the public and normally includes speeches, presentation of wreath, music, aircraft flyover, and salute using military weaponry.

"With the tumultuous circumstances created by the pandemic and Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine, our appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who came before us demand commemoration now more than ever. I am humbled to return our Memorial Day Ceremony to Pūowaina, a beautiful location honoring those who gave their lives in defense of our democratic ideals. May this event serve as a reminder that our gratitude is due every day, as we continue to preserve and enhance the principles we hold to be righteous.”

~ Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi