Fort Jackson National Cemetery Memorial Day Commemoration

The Fort Jackson National Cemetery Memorial Day Commemoration is a steady point of reflection for the holiday in Columbia, South Carolina. Just off Interstate 20, the 585-acre cemetery sets a quiet tone for a morning dedicated to those buried across its rolling grounds. You will typically gather at the flag assembly area alongside families, veterans, and local residents.

You can expect a structured program focused on service and remembrance. Keynote remarks often include senior military leadership, and music is commonly provided by the 282nd Army Band. Core elements include a wreath-laying ceremony, a rifle salute, and Taps. After the formal tributes, volunteers often place small American flags at each headstone, and the scale of the grounds makes the gesture feel immediate.

Plan to arrive by 9:30 AM if you want a good spot near the committal shelters or the flag assembly area. Entry is free and open to the public. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, since late-morning heat can build quickly. Park only in designated lots and follow shuttle instructions if capacity is reached, and leave pets at home out of respect for the setting. If weather turns wet, the ceremony generally continues unless conditions are severe, and the cemetery’s paved roads and facilities near the administration center support accessibility. Children are welcome, and you can set expectations with them in advance so the experience stays respectful.

After the ceremony, we suggest keeping the rest of your day slow paced. You can continue the reflective tone at the Columbia Riverwalk where the Saluda and Broad rivers meet, or drive to Lake Murray for time on the water. If you are visiting from out of town, look for lodging in northeast Columbia or downtown for the simplest commute, or consider a vacation rental near Lake Murray through Lake.com for an easy transition from the morning program to an afternoon outside.