As Oregonians, we’re no strangers to rugged mountains, wild coastlines, and the quiet beauty of the land we call home. But on Memorial Day, our focus turns not just to the land—but to those who have died defending it.
Today, across the United States, we pause to remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. From the beaches of Normandy to the deserts of the Middle East, from frozen mountain passes to thick jungle terrain—our fallen heroes answered the call of duty so that future generations could live free.
Here in Oregon, the echoes of that sacrifice are etched into every corner of our state. They're found in the names engraved at the Oregon World War II Memorial in Salem, in the quiet of Willamette National Cemetery, in the stories shared by Gold Star families, and in small-town parades where veterans and families gather to remember.
Memorial Day is not about barbecues or sales events—it is about memory. And gratitude. And silence. It’s about standing still for a moment, and realizing that the freedoms we enjoy every day were paid for with the lives of brave Americans who never came home.
Remembering Oregon's Own
Oregon has a long history of service. From the Civil War to Afghanistan, our state has sent sons and daughters into battle. Many did not return.
Do you love Oregon?
Sign up for monthly emails full of local travel inspiration and fun trip ideas. In each newsletter we'll share upcoming events, new things to do, hot dining spots and great travel ideas.
- Sergeant First Class Nathan Chapman, raised in Oregon, was the first American soldier killed in combat during the War in Afghanistan.
- Specialist Marshall A. Edgerton, of Newberg, was just 27 when he was killed in Iraq in 2003.
- Staff Sergeant Taylor Marks, from Monmouth, died during training in 2019 while preparing to serve.
Their names are among many. Each one a story. Each one a sacrifice.
How We Can Honor Them
This Memorial Day, consider how you might do more than simply observe the holiday—consider how you might honor it:
- Visit a local veterans cemetery or war memorial.
- Take a moment of silence at 3 p.m., the National Moment of Remembrance.
- Fly the American flag at half-staff until noon.
- Teach your children why this day matters.
Even a simple act—laying a flower, saying a prayer, thanking a veteran for remembering their brothers and sisters—can carry deep meaning.
Let Their Memory Live On
At That Oregon Life, we are proud of our veterans and forever grateful to those who laid down their lives for this country. Oregon is a land of freedom, beauty, and resilience—because brave men and women stood guard over it.
This Memorial Day, may we live not just in remembrance—but in a way that is worthy of their sacrifice.
To our fallen heroes: Oregon remembers you. America honors you. And we will never forget.
