On May 29, 2005, Americans from all over United States stopped their daily life routine to honor the men and women who placed their lives on the line to defend freedom. Millions attended the special Memorial Day Sunday services and other events, including parades, official ceremonies and solemn visits, which have been prepared for the three-day weekend.

Memorial Day takes place on the last Monday of May, and commemorates the US servicemen and women who died in military service for their country

In a brief radio address, President George W. Bush spoke on the sacrifices of the US military personnel who died in the line of duty.

“Our citizens live in freedom because patriots are willing to serve and sacrifice for our liberty,” Bush said in his weekly address Saturday. “As we honor the members of our Armed Forces who have died for our freedom, we also honor those who are defending our liberties today.”

"Every year on this day, we pause to remember Americans who have fallen by placing a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns," said Bush. "The names of the men buried there are known only to God, but their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten by our nation."

Memorial Day began as a day to honor soldiers who died in the American Civil War, but has now become a day to celebrate those who died in all battles, including the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Most church observances were marked with the reading of the names of those who died in battle within the last 12 months.