Memorial Day

Memorial flag
On the grave of each of the fallen defense and security forces of Israel, in military and civilian cemeteries across the country, including the most remote locations and even solitary graves, a small Israel flag is placed at half-mast. The flag is adorned with a black ribbon bearing the letters of Izkor, symbolizing eternal gratitude and commitment to the fallen, the beloved of the entire nation, and the bereaved families.

The tribute ceremony for Israel's fallen, including the placement of the national flag on their graves, takes place at the National Memorial Hall on Mount Herzl, near Memorial Day, in the presence of senior officials from the defense establishment.

Lowering the national flag to half-mast
At all cemeteries across the country, as an expression of mourning and respect for the fallen.

Wearing the Blood of the Maccabees sticker
Symbolizes growth from pain, unity, and resilience as a society. It represents solidarity and standing alongside bereaved families while honoring the memory of the fallen. 

One-minute memorial siren
The siren marks the beginning of the central memorial ceremonies and is heard across the country twice: on the eve of Memorial Day at 8:00 PM and on Memorial Day at 11:00 AM.

Memorial Day letter
Sent to every bereaved family since the early days of the state. Since the 1970s, the letter has been signed by the Minister of Defense, or by the Prime Minister where the Prime Minister also serves as Minister of Defense, and is called the Minister's Memorial Day letter. It is delivered in a specially produced envelope with a stamp for Memorial Day.

Broadcasting the names of the fallen on television
The channel changes from year to year. You can check the website close to Memorial Day for exact broadcast details.

Honor guard
At all memorial ceremonies, an honor guard, composed of IDF soldiers, participates to pay respect to the occasion and to the memory of the fallen.