Salem Museum Memorial Day Weekend Event: Fallen Defenders—Past to Present
to
Salem Museum 801 E Main, Salem, Virginia 24153
Salem Museum
On Saturday, May 27 from 10 am to 4 pm, experience a unique display of military uniforms and Fallen Soldier Battle Crosses. The display will represent almost every major conflict in American history from the Revolutionary War through Operation Inherent Resolve. The display will be set up on the grounds of the Salem Museum and is presented by the 24th Virginia Infantry Living Historians, who will be onsite to answer questions. This event is free and open to the public.
Traditionally, in conflicts past, the spot where a soldier or a marine fell in battle was marked by a helmet placed on a rifle with its bayonet thrust into the ground. This marker was a powerful symbol of respect, but also of courage, sacrifice and loss.
Our current day military rarely has the need to mark the locations of the fallen. Instead, the Fallen Soldier Battle Cross is often displayed at memorial services that are held after a battle. The Fallen Soldier Battle Cross combines the helmet, rifle, and boots of each fallen comrade as part of a visual tribute.
About the Salem Museum & Historical Society
The Salem Museum & Historical Society is an independent, nonprofit organization preserving and celebrating the history of Salem, Virginia, which was founded in 1802. The Salem Museum is located next to Longwood Park in the historic 1845 Williams-Brown House at 801 East Main Street, Salem, VA 24153. Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm. Museum admission is free, but donations are appreciated. The Museum has ample free parking. 540-389-6760. salemmuseum.org
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