Spencer, Iowa (NorthwestIowaNow.com) — On Memorial Day, Americans are asked to pause at 3 pm and have a moment of silence, but in Northwest Iowa, local musicians are being asked to fill the silence with a traditional, powerful tune.

Spencer’s Mike Harlamen is coordinating a local “Taps Across America” effort, a national movement he explains was inspired by a CBS News report more than a decade ago.

In 2020, A retired air force bugler civilianized that story into a nationwide tribute during the pandemic. With public events canceled, musicians took to their porches and local landmarks to sound the call in unison.

Harlamen encourages local musicians to synchronize across Northwest Iowa this Monday, May 25 to create a continuous chain of remembrance.

The offcial National Moment of Remembrance was established by Congress in 2000, and if you are inclined to participate or simply pause for reflection, set an alarm for 5 minutes until 3 pm, step outside and listen to the valley echoes.