Each year on Memorial Day, the floral industry unites in a profound tradition—placing flowers at the gravesites of fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery. It’s a gesture of remembrance, made possible by the Memorial Day Flowers Foundation, that speaks to the heart of what we believe in: honoring life, serving others, and leading with compassion.
This past Monday, more than 150,000 fresh flowers were hand-placed at Arlington. Volunteers paused at each headstone, read the names, and gently laid a bloom—turning fields of marble into landscapes of gratitude.
At Choice Farms, we’ve supported this initiative for many years, and each year, we are reminded of how powerful flowers can be—not just in celebration, but in commemoration.
“It’s moments like this that show the heart of our industry,” says Freddy Melero, Choice Farms’ Director of Procurement and Sales and President of the Wholesale Florist & Florist Supplier Association (WFFSA). “To see so many people come together to honor service through flowers—it reminds us that what we grow, sell, and share matters deeply.”
Why Memorial Day Flowers Matters
Founded in 2011, the Memorial Day Flowers Foundation began with a mission to place 10,000 roses at Arlington. Since then, it has grown into a nationwide effort—engaging growers, importers, wholesalers, logistics teams, and families across the country.
This year, the Foundation asked for over 400 volunteers to help distribute flowers, with donations arriving from across the floral supply chain. The effort spans across sections of Arlington including:
- Section 60, honoring recent casualties of Iraq and Afghanistan
- The ANC Welcome Center, where flowers are offered to visiting families
- Programs like T.A.P.S. (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors)
- And, when requested, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Although we are not directly affiliated with the Foundation, we are proud to align with this tradition through our values and donations—and through industry-led efforts such as WFFSA’s Flower Movement, which champions initiatives that give back through flowers.
The Power of Floral Tributes
Memorial Day is more than a long weekend—it is a national moment of reflection. And in the floral industry, it’s one of the few times where flowers take on a distinctly solemn yet healing role.
To place a flower at a headstone is to offer gratitude without words. It’s a small act—but one that carries deep emotional weight, both for the giver and the family who sees that tribute.
At Choice Farms, we believe these gestures matter. And we’re honored to work in an industry that understands how to transform beauty into meaning.
Learn More or Get Involved
To learn more about the Memorial Day Flowers Foundation, their impact, and how you can contribute next year—either as a volunteer or donor—visit: www.memorialdayflowers.org
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