Every May, the Grand Strand pauses to recognize the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This Memorial Day weekend carries additional significance as communities across the country prepare to commemorate America 250, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.
For decades, the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base played a major role in shaping the region economically, culturally and historically. The base played a significant role during the Cold War and military operations abroad, particularly through the deployment of A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft and combat support missions. The base closed in 1993 and has since transformed into The Market Common, one of Myrtle Beach’s most vibrant districts.
Communities across the Grand Strand continue to celebrate the region's military heritage through memorials, monuments and parks.
Myrtle Beach's Military Appreciation Days
Military Appreciation Days has become one of the region’s most meaningful annual traditions. Organized by the City of Myrtle Beach in partnership with the Military Appreciation Committee, local veterans organizations, community volunteers, and tourism partners, the program honors active-duty military personnel, veterans, and military families through public ceremonies and community events.
The 2026 schedule includes:
- Saturday, May 16, 6 p.m.: Myrtle Beach Pelicans Military Appreciation Night at Pelicans Ballpark
- Friday, May 22, 7 p.m.: Festive Brass Concert Performance at General Robert H. Reed Recreation Center
- Saturday, May 23, 10 a.m.: “America 250: Red, White and Remember” Parade and Military Appreciation Family Picnic at The Market Common
- Monday, May 25, 9 a.m.: Jack Platt Veterans’ March and Battlefield Cross Ceremony, Ocean Boulevard and Plyler Park
- Monday, May 25, 11 a.m.: Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony and Vietnam Memorial Dedication at Warbird Park
- Tuesday, May 26, 7:30 a.m: MOAA Col. Francis A. Esposito (Ret.) Golf Tournament at Blackmoor Golf Club
These events not only honor military sacrifice and service but also strengthen community connections between residents, veterans, visitors, and military families.
Military Banners Spotlight Local Heroes
One of the most visible symbols of military recognition throughout the area is the display of military banners honoring local veterans and active-duty service members.
The City of Myrtle Beach is displaying commemorative street banners along Ocean Boulevard featuring photographs, names, and branches of service of local heroes. The banner program is deeply personal for many families, offering a public way to recognize loved ones who served the nation. For residents and visitors alike, the displays serve as a reminder that military service and sacrifice are part of the fabric of our community.
Around The Grand Strand
Communities throughout Horry and Georgetown counties will also host Memorial Day ceremonies and patriotic events honoring veterans, active-duty military personnel, and the sacrifices made by members of the United States Armed Forces.
- North Myrtle Beach traditionally holds a Memorial Day Service on Monday at 11 a.m. at the Veteran's Memorial located inside the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex.
- Surfside Beach will have a Memorial Day Golf Cart Parade at 11 a.m. followed by a Memorial Day Ceremony at 2 p.m. on Monday, May 25, 2026.
