WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama spent Memorial Day paying tribute to the military.

The Obamas visited Arlington National Cemetery where the president participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

Following the ceremony, the president participated in the Memorial Day Service at the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery along with Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Defense Secretary Robert Gates.

The Obamas started the day hosting a breakfast for families who have lost loved ones in combat.

Also Monday, the president introduced Army Gen. Martin Dempsey as his next choice to lead the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Pictured: Pres. Barack Obama walks with Maj. Gen. Karl Horst, commander of the U. S. Army Military District of Washington, his wife Nancy, and first lady Michelle Obama before placing a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns on Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery, Monday, May 30, 2011.