Memorial Day: Honoring Our Troops and the American Supply Chain That Supports Them

Every Memorial Day, we pause to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives defending our country and protecting the freedoms we enjoy every day. Their sacrifice represents the very best of America: courage, service, and commitment to something greater than themselves.

While we remember our fallen heroes, it is also important to recognize the industries and workers here at home that continue to support the strength and readiness of our military. Among those industries, America’s foundries play a critical role.

Foundries are the backbone of manufacturing many of the components essential to our national defense. From naval vessels and military vehicles to aircraft systems, weapons platforms, electrical infrastructure, and defense equipment, cast metal parts are everywhere. Copper, aluminum, bronze, brass, and other non-ferrous alloys help power and protect the systems our troops rely on every day.

Behind every casting is a skilled American workforce—melting, pouring, machining, and producing the parts that help keep our military supplied, operational, and safe.

A strong domestic foundry industry also means a stronger American supply chain. In today’s world of global uncertainty, maintaining U.S. based manufacturing capacity is more important than ever. Relying on American-made metal castings and materials helps reduce dependence on foreign supply chains and ensures critical components remain available when our nation needs them most.

Many foundries across the country are proud to employ veterans whose leadership, discipline, and dedication strengthen our industry every day. Their service continues long after their military careers end, helping build the products and infrastructure that support America’s future.

This Memorial Day, we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice and recognize the importance of preserving the American manufacturing strength that supports our nation’s security.

From everyone in the foundry industry, we thank our veterans, active-duty military, and military families for their service and sacrifice.