On Thursday, May 22, 2025, HUD held the Annual Memorial Day Ceremony to honor Fallen Heroes at its Headquarters in Washington, DC. The program theme was “Honor and Remember.” American Gold Star Mothers President Patti Elliott attended along with some of the American Gold Star Board Members, and Maryland Gold Star Mothers, Paula Davis and Joy Goode. The program began with the Toll of Bells and Opening Remarks from Jerryl Bennett, United States Army (Veteran), Chair, Veterans Affinity Group, Public and Indian Housing, United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Mistress of Ceremonies was Eva Fulton, United States Army (Veteran), Vice-Chair Veterans Affinity Group, Program Analyst, Office of Policy, Programs, and Legislative Initiatives, Public and Indian Housing, U.S. Dept of HUD. After the presentation of Colors from the United States Marine Corps Color Guard, the ceremony continued with a video message from the Honorable E. Scott Turner, Secretary of the United States Department. Of Housing and Urban Development. The Occasion was given by Cheryl Monroe, CW5, Chief Warrant Officer Five, United States Army (Retired). The Call to Action was given by Jozetta Robinson, United States Marine Corps (Veteran), Director, Executive Secretariat, Office of the Secretary, United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. A Veteran’s Call to Continue the Mission was given by Jason G. Loughran, United States Navy (Veteran), Region II, Regional Administrator, Office of Field Policy and Management, United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Keynote Speaker was Rear Admiral Hal Pittman, United States Navy (Retired), Director, Office of Public Affairs, United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission. After his message, the Gold Star Mothers were presented with a Certificate of Remembrance. The Mothers joined the Speaker on stage for the laying of the Memorial Wreath. A moment of silence was observed, and TAPS was played by Dwane Starlin, Bugles Across America. The Ceremony was live-streamed throughout HUD. We look forward to attending this wonderful ceremony each year.
