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The Air Force Memorial, along with a part of Arlington National Cemetery, will be closed July 4.
Closures are due to “a significant safety and security risk,” according to a Thursday announcement.
“While we recognize it has become an annual tradition for many visitors and local community members to view the fireworks and commemorate this patriotic day from the Air Force Memorial, this is an active construction site, which poses a significant safety and security risk,” Army National Military Cemeteries and Arlington National Cemetery Executive Director Karen Durham-Aguilera said. “Our priority is to keep our visitors safe and allow them the time needed to make alternative plans this holiday.”
GOV. NOEM RAILS AGAINST NATIONAL PARK SERVICE OVER MT. RUSHMORE FIREWORKS PERMIT
The grassy knolls of the memorial have fit thousands of spectators at the annual fireworks show in the past.
“Ongoing construction near the site in support of the Arlington National Cemetery’s Southern Expansion Project prevents us from safely hosting people during this year’s celebration,” Air Force District of Washington commander Maj. Gen. Joel Jackson said.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
Construction includes the cemetery’s “Southern Expansion Project,” which will add 38 acres to the property, the largest expansion in the cemetery’s history. It will add up to 80,000 more burial plots.
