Stars salute troops on Memorial Day

Nathan Followill, Bret Michaels and Kiss are among the stars who have saluted troops on Memorial Day (27May13).

A number of famous faces have spoken out to pay tribute to soldiers and urge fellow Americans to properly observe Monday's (27May13) holiday, which commemorates the contribution of servicemen and women.

Poison star Michaels performed at the Indianapolis 500 event in Speedway, Indiana on Friday (24May13) and brought three serving soldiers on stage with him to receive applause from the crowd, and he was open in his appreciation for them in a post on his Twitter.com page on Monday, writing, "I'll never forget the continued sacrifices our troops make to protect our freedom. Respect. Appreciation."

Fellow rockers KISS, who are big supporters of military charities, posted a statement on their official website urging fans not to forget the real meaning of Memorial Day.

It reads, "As Americans we need to remember that the day we see as a holiday is actually a time to pay tribute and remember all the brave members of the Armed Forces fighting on our behalf, facing the ultimate sacrifice daily. KISS remembers and honors all our brave soldiers lost in all wars and prays for the safe return of all those fighting now."

Ozzy Osbourne's son Jack adds in a post on Twitter.com, "I hope every1 (sic) is having a gr8 (great) Memorial Day weekend. However we must not forget what this day actually stands for. Take a minute to reflect," and Kings of Leon star Nathan Followill writes, "Thank you to all who have served, sacrificed & are currently serving in our armed forces. Happy Memorial Day. Proud of my grandpa. Korean War."

Billy Ray Cyrus writes, "Pray for our troops today... give thanks for our Veterans" and fellow country star Alan Jackson offers, "On this Memorial Day, we remember the men and women who lost their lives serving in the United States Armed Forces."

Other stars to have sent out Memorial Day messages in support of troops include Carrie Underwood, the Jonas Brothers, Mia Farrow, Nick Lachey, Darius Rucker, Rose McGowan and Patricia Arquette.