Randy Reeves, Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs delivers remarks on behalf of Veterans Affairs at the Carry The Load Kickoff. (Photo Curtesy of Robert Ray Photography)
The environment was optimistic and energetic as things began to gear up for the 2019 Carry the Load Kickoff Celebration in Dallas, Texas. For the past nine years, the kickoff celebration has served as an opportunity for participants, supporters and the organization to come together and reflect on the mission, the upcoming relays and remember those we Carry The Load for.
This kickoff signifies the beginning of the Carry The Load Memorial May Campaign, consisting of a National Relay and events covering 40 states and this year, stops at 26 of our National Cemeteries. Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs Randy Reeves joined the celebration this year and was excited to announce the National Cemetery Administration’s new partnership with Carry The Load.
At each of the twenty-six National Cemeteries that will serve as rally points for Carry The Load, a dedication ceremony will be held to dedicate a new plaque, “Tribute to the Fallen and Their Families.” This plaque will help us better recognize our service members and their families for the many sacrifices they’ve given for our country. Carry The Load will participate in twenty-six of these ceremonies, but additional ceremonies will take place at each National Cemetery leading up to Memorial Day.
The Carry The Load mission naturally aligns with NCA’s mission and our sacred vision of ensuring No Veteran Ever Dies. Because both organizations are dedicated to providing active, meaningful ways to honor and celebrate the sacrifices made by our nation’s heroes and their families, a partnership was instinctive. Together, we will share stories of our heroes, honor their lives, and ensure their legacies live in perpetuity.
“Tribute to The Fallen and Their Families” plaque that will be dedicated at each National Cemetery.
NCA is very excited to work with Carry The Load in the coming months and we hope our partnership continues to grow in the coming years with additional National Cemeteries named as rally points. Together, we will travel across the country during the month of May providing an active way to connect Americans to the sacrifices of those who have served.
For a full list of National Cemetery stops along the National Relay, visit the upcoming events page.
About the Author: Tiffany Miller is the speechwriter to the Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs. is responsible for the overall communication strategy and messaging for the Under Secretary, and ensuring the National Cemetery Administration’s (NCA) key themes and priorities are accurately and effectively conveyed.
Prior to this appointment, Ms. Miller served as the Director for Digital Engagement and Strategy for the Office of the Secretary of Defense from June 2017 to January 2019.
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