FORT BRAGG, N.C. — Soldiers, veterans, Gold Star families and military leaders gathered at Meadows Field for the United States Army Special Operations Command’s annual Remembrance Ceremony on May 21, 2026, honoring fallen special operations soldiers.
The ceremony brought together members of the special operations community for a day centered on reflection, military honors and remembrance for service members who lost their lives while serving the nation.
During the event, an MH-47 Chinook and MH-60 Black Hawk from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment conducted a flyover above USASOC headquarters as attendees stood in silence across the memorial grounds.
Meadows Field, where the ceremony is held each year, is named after Maj. Dick Meadows, a highly respected Special Forces operator whose legacy remains deeply connected to Army Special Operations history.
The ceremony was led by USASOC Commanding General Lt. Gen. Lawrence “Gil” Ferguson, who described the gathering as more than a moment of mourning, calling it a tribute to sacrifice, valor and the legacy carried forward by America’s “quiet professionals.”
“Memorials are more than just fields, more than statues, more than street signs,” Ferguson said during remarks at the ceremony. “Ultimately, we are the memorials.”
Military honors throughout the event included wreath-laying ceremonies, moments of silence and tributes recognizing fallen special operations personnel. Families and fellow service members reflected on those lost during years of combat and military operations around the world.
“Taps” echoed across the field before a regimental bagpipe performance of “Amazing Grace” closed portions of the ceremony alongside the sound of Army Special Operations aircraft overhead.
Ferguson also addressed currently serving soldiers during the ceremony, emphasizing that remembrance continues through daily service, leadership and commitment to others.
The annual USASOC remembrance ceremony remains one of Fort Bragg’s most recognized military traditions, bringing together generations of special operations soldiers and families to honor sacrifice and preserve the memory of those who never returned home.
Kres Thomas
Fort Bragg Today
