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Virginia War Memorial Holds 64th Memorial Day Ceremony Virtually

Memorial Day Commemoration 2020
A memorial wreath was placed at the foot of "Memory," a statue in the Shrine of Memory, by the secretary of veterans and defense affairs, the Hon. Carlos Hopkins and Virginia National Guard 'soldier of the year,' Specialist Neil Miller. (Photo: Virginia War Memorial)

The Commonwealth of Virginia's 64th annual Memorial Day ceremony was a little different this year, due to the ongoing pandemic.

Normally, hundreds attend the annual ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial.  But to continue slowing the spread of the coronavirus, the public was asked to attend a virtual ceremony at home, and a small number of participants kept their distance and wore masks. Instead of having speakers on site, recorded remarks were broadcast, including a speech by Gov. Ralph Northam.

"Although we are practicing social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we are united in our hearts in remembering our fallen," Northam said.

Families and organizations who would like to place a wreath at the memorial are invited to do so privately, anytime after 11:30 a.m., Monday through Friday.

Charles Fishburne contributed to this story.