Today, as they have done since 1949, members of the AHEPA family from throughout the Washington DC metro-area gathered to memorialize those identified as Greek Americans or Greek Orthodox who are buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

According to organizers, there are roughly 660 grave sites at which AHEPA and Daughters of Penelope members presented a laurel wreath and paused in remembrance of those who perished for our nation.

This ceremony has been performed annually since 1949.

AHEPA Executive Director Basil Mossaidis called the event not only “honor” to remember those who have fallen for our country, but also a valuable history lesson.”

He added in a Facebook post “Proud to once again be able to join the Washington DC area chapters of AHEPA and assist in placing wreaths at over 600 Greek American servicemen and women. We got a special treat also as we saw the burial sites of General Omar Bradley, President William H. Taft in addition to Medal of Honor recipient Greek American George Dilboy.”

Members of the Washington DC-area AHEPA chapters placing wreaths at the graves of Greek American and Greek Orthodox service men and women at Arlington National Cemetery on Memorial Day Weekend 2016 (Photos by Basil Mossaidis)