Autumn Memorial Service by the Memorial Foundation

The Autumn Memorial Service is hosted by the Memorial Foundation and receives around1,000 attendees.

The memorial service is held annually in the middle of October to console the spirits of the soldiers, military employees, and citizens enshrined at the Memorial Hall, who symbolise the spirits of all people whose lives were lost in the war.

First, Japanese tea is served for the War Dead, followed by recitations of the poems of the Showa Emperor and the Emperor Emeritus. Children’s songs are also dedicated to the War Dead Spirits.

A highlight of this service is the worship and moment of silence led by an Imperial family member.

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Another feature is the respect demonstrated by the Defense Forces. Army, Navy, and Airforce members pay their respects by presenting arms while the military band plays. This is followed by flower offerings by the bereaved family members, comrades, and distinguished guests, including foreign ambassadors.