The Lincoln Cemetery Project Association warmly invites the public to attend its annual Memorial Day Program on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Lincoln Cemetery in Gettysburg.
Since the late 1800s, Lincoln Cemetery has honored the Gettysburg community through this longstanding Memorial Day tradition. Established by earlier generations, the annual observance remains a solemn commitment to preserving local history, educating the community, and honoring the service and sacrifice of those who came before us.
The program will feature an invocation by Pastor Duane Coleman of International Family Worship Center, followed by a performance of The Battle Hymn of the Republic by Alicia Garner, also of International Family Worship Center.
Professor Scott Hancock of Gettysburg College will introduce this year’s keynote speaker, Kevin M. Hymel, historian for Arlington National Cemetery.
Additional ceremonial elements will include the Posting of the Colors by Allied Veterans and a Memorial Honor Guard volley salute.
Hymel (pronounced Heemel) serves as a historian for Arlington National Cemetery, where he documents ceremonies, historic events, and funeral services. He is also a historian and tour guide for Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours, leading World War II tours across European battlefields including Normandy and sites associated with Gen. George S. Patton.
He is the author of several books, including Patton’s War: An American General’s Combat Leadership (Volumes 1 and 2), with Volume 2 receiving the Army Historical Foundation’s Distinguished Writers Award for Best Biography and recognition as a Gilder Lehrman Prize finalist. Volume 3 is scheduled for release on June 22, 2026.
Hymel’s additional works include Patton’s Photographs and Patton: Legendary World War II Commander. He previously served as research director for Sovereign Media, publisher of WWII History magazine, and continues to write on military history topics.
His article, “Fighting a Two-Front War,” inspired the Netflix film Six Triple Eight, written and directed by Tyler Perry, for which Hymel served as a technical advisor. He also co-hosts the podcast World War II Live with historian John McManus.
Hymel previously worked as a historian for the U.S. Army’s Combat Studies Institute, focusing on small-unit operations in Afghanistan, and has appeared on the History Channel, American Heroes Channel, Science Channel, C-SPAN, and Book TV. He holds a master’s degree in American history from Villanova University.
Parking for attendees will be available at the Gettysburg Recreation Park, 545 Long Lane, and PNC Bank, 245 Breckenridge Street. Seating will be provided.
The Lincoln Cemetery Project Association encourages community members and visitors alike to attend this meaningful annual remembrance.