American Legion 500 Festival Memorial Service

Uniting Indianapolis in Reflection

The American Legion 500 Festival Memorial Service has united the community in downtown Indianapolis for decades. Amidst the racing festivities, it provides a moment for collective reflection.

The 500 Festival invites the community to join in reflection and gratitude at the Memorial Service on Friday, May 22, at 12:00 p.m. The service will take place on the north steps of the Indiana War Memorial and is free to the public.

The American Legion 500 Festival Memorial Service honors and remembers our nation’s fallen heroes and the brave servicemen and women who have perished while serving in the armed forces.

Order of Service

• Musical prelude by the Indiana Army National Guard’s 38th Infantry Division Band
• Posting of the Colors by the Joint Service Color Guard
• Singing of the National Anthem
• Cover removed from the empty chair to bear the Prisoners of War / Missing in Action Flag
• Laying of the wreaths
• Toll of the Ship’s Bell, recognizing all military casualties, our Gold Star and Hoosier Heroes
• Military Funeral Procession, a Cortege, including the Escort Commander, Honor Platoons representing all services, Drummers, Honor Guard, the horse drawn Caisson which transports the fallen hero’s remains, eight Casket Bearers, and the Caparisoned Horse
• Indiana National Guard’s 38th Infantry Division Band plays “Taps” 
• Flyover consisting of two UH-60 Black Hawks
• Capital City Chorus performs “God Bless America” 

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher 500 Festival