MAJ Lorraine Holland, US Army (ret)

The Children of Fallen Patriots Day on May 13th celebrates the sacrifice of military children who have lost a parent in service to our country. This day helps to raise awareness of the sacrifices and struggles children must endure in the wake of their parent’s death. The numbers are staggering, and in the past 25 years, more than 15,000 children have lost parents in military conflict. This date reminds us to applaud their resilience and strength and show appreciation for the young people whose lives were forever changed. May 13th was selected as the date of observance due to being the day Arlington National Cemetery was established in 1864. Note: Beginning May 7, 2025, individuals over 18 who enter Arlington National Cemetery in a vehicle should be prepared to present a REAL ID at the security checkpoint.

The Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) Memorial Day Ceremony on Friday, May 23rd at 10 a.m.

The Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) will host a Memorial Day ceremony on Friday, May 23 at 10 a.m. to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our Nation. The event will take place at the amphitheater located at the rear entrance of the Orlando VA Medical Center in Lake Nona.

Cindy VanBibber, Director of Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, will serve as the keynote speaker. A proud U.S. Army Veteran, VanBibber brings more than 25 years of combined military and federal service to her role. She has dedicated her career to ensuring Veterans and their families receive the honor and respect they deserve, particularly in their final resting place. Her leadership at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery has helped uphold the NCA’s sacred mission of memorializing those who served with dignity and reverence.

Orlando VA Director/CEO, Timothy J. Cooke emphasized the importance of community remembrance and Veteran support. “Memorial Day is a time for reflection and gratitude,” said Cooke. “This ceremony is a solemn reminder of the cost of freedom and an opportunity for our community to come together in honor of those who gave all.”

Event Details:

• Date/Time: Friday, May 23 at 10 a.m.
• Location: Amphitheater at the rear entrance of the Orlando VA Medical Center, Lake Nona, Orlando, Fla.
• RSVP Requested: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TQG5VTL
• Parking: Available in the east and west parking garages, as well as the south parking lot near the emergency department

Attendees are asked not to park in the Community Living Center or Domiciliary parking areas. Golf cart shuttles will be available to assist guests to and from the event location.