By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer. (May 26, 2025)
As Memorial Day approaches, El Dorado County residents are invited to remember the nation’s fallen military heroes through a series of community events and reflections across the region.
While many see the long weekend as the start of summer, veterans and local leaders are reminding the public of Memorial Day’s solemn purpose: to honor the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. “It’s not about the barbecue,” said Army veteran Michael Haskins of Placerville VFW Post 10165.
“It’s about taking a moment to stand in silence for those who gave everything.”
Memorial Day Events in El Dorado County
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Placerville Memorial Parade and Ceremony
Monday, May 26 at 10 a.m.
Beginning at the historic Bell Tower on Main Street, the annual parade will feature Gold Star families, veterans, scouts, and school bands. A ceremony will follow at the Veterans Memorial Monument on Clay Street, with speeches by local officials and a 21-gun salute by American Legion Post 119. -
Cameron Park Veterans Memorial Gathering
Monday, May 26 at 9 a.m.
The El Dorado Veterans Alliance will host a wreath-laying ceremony at Christa McAuliffe Park, including a moment of silence and the reading of local names lost in combat. -
El Dorado Hills Tribute Walk
Sunday, May 25 at 6 p.m.
Families are invited to walk the El Dorado Hills Memorial Trail, where commemorative plaques line the pathway in memory of fallen service members from California. Volunteers will provide flags and candles at the entrance near Town Center.
Local high school students and civic groups are also participating in flag-placing efforts at El Dorado County cemeteries over the weekend.
A Call to Reflection
Organizers across the county are encouraging residents to pause for the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day.
“It’s just 60 seconds of silence,”
said Lisa Romero, director of the El Dorado County Veterans Services Office.
“But that minute connects us across time and distance to those who served and never came home.”
Why Memorial Day Matters
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day following the Civil War, has evolved into a nationwide day of remembrance for all military personnel who died in U.S. wars. It was declared a federal holiday in 1971, observed on the last Monday of May.
While many Americans celebrate with leisure activities, veterans and Gold Star families often spend the day grieving, remembering, and educating others on the cost of freedom.
Local church groups are planning services with military hymns and prayers, and several businesses will be offering military discounts or free meals to veterans and active-duty personnel—though these offers are often more appropriate for Veterans Day.
In the words of President Ronald Reagan, whose quote will be read during several ceremonies this weekend:
“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.”
