Do you hear those bells? They are not just any bells. They are the sounds of the AMVETS Carillon, a living memorial dedicated to our nation’s deceased veterans.
The AMVETS Carillon program started in 1948. AMVETS sought a fitting way to honor those who died in World War II. They decided on a “living” memorial. This memorial would feature a carillon with bells. The bells would symbolize Thomas Jefferson’s words. Those words are “eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.” The bells would toll as a constant reminder.
The AMVETS Carillon would do more than honor sacrifice. It would remind us of our legacy. It would remind us of our debt to those who fought for freedom worldwide.
The first AMVETS Carillon was installed at Arlington National Cemetery. Congress approved it in October 1948. President Harry S. Truman dedicated it on December 21, 1949. He said, “As these bells ring…honored dead rest…freedom lives…”
That first AMVETS Carillon was very popular. So, AMVETS created a formal program. Now, AMVETS carillons are in over 90 locations. These include the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor and the AMVETS National Headquarters.
The carillon at AMVETS National Headquarters is special. It was designated the AMVETS National Memorial Carillon on July 4, 1976. This marked the nation’s 200th Anniversary. AMVETS invites supporters to enroll deceased relatives who served honorably. The bells of the National Memorial Carillon then toll in their memory. This happens on a specific date and time. The National Memorial Roster is on display in the Chapel. It is at AMVETS National Headquarters in Lanham, Maryland.
AMVETS plans to install more carillons in the future. Their goal is to have them at all Department of Veterans Affairs cemeteries.
Think about the echoes of these bells. The AMVETS Carillon is more than just a musical instrument. It is a reminder of service and sacrifice. It is a tribute to the brave men and women who defended our freedom. Each chime tells a story. Each note is a thank you. The AMVETS Carillon continues to be a lasting symbol of remembrance.