Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth began Memorial Day weekend by joining his children and others on May 24 to clean the statues and markers at the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington.
Hegseth said the effort was more than a cleanup — it was a chance to educate a new generation about the sacrifices made by Americans during the Korean War and other conflicts.
"It gave me a moment to remind the kids about the Korean War — what was it, why did it matter, what the strategic environment was, who were we fighting, how many people we lost, and why are we still there," he said. "All of those conversations that otherwise may not come up around a dinner table."
He said he hopes this encourages families across the country to take similar opportunities to reflect and discuss the meaning of Memorial Day.
"We have to very intentionally infuse it into the minds and hearts and souls of young kids so that they understand why it's special — and want to pass it as well," Hegseth said.
Veterans Affairs Secretary Douglas A. Collins also attended the event.
“This Memorial Day and throughout the year, we at the Department of Veterans Affairs honor and remember the brave heroes who gave their lives in defense of our nation,” Collins said in a statement. “I encourage Americans to join us at VA cemeteries around the country this weekend to reflect on the tremendous debt we owe these fallen warriors. Their sacrifices have helped make America the greatest place on Earth, and their legacies of courage and commitment inspire us to reach new heights.”