In Georgia, ceremonies honoring and remembering the fallen have been held across the state for Memorial Day.
People gathered at the Marietta National Cemetery to pay tribute to veterans who served and made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation’s freedom.
Channel 2 Cobb County Bureau Chief Michele Newell reported it was the 80th annual service at the national cemetery. Scout troops from around the area placed a total of 18,000 American flags on every headstone.
The National Memorial Day Association of Georgia hosts the event. The Marietta High School Air Force JROTC participated, and Marietta Mayor Steve Tumlin and Michael Shannon, president of the University of North Georgia spoke.
In Alpharetta, a wreath laying ceremony was held at the Alpharetta Veterans Memorial at City Hall to remember and honor those who served, Channel 2’s Steve Gehlbach reported.
The veterans memorial was erected 10 years ago, the same year they began the Memorial Day tribute.
The keynote speaker was U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick, a Marine and former helicopter pilot. He said he’s grateful for all who served and paid the ultimate price defending the country and protecting our values.
“Knowing there’s a high probability you’ll die going into battle but still volunteering, not forced in but volunteering for service on something so special, that’s what makes it stand out to me,” he said. “That’s what I know my friends died for.”
This year, on the 50th anniversary of the ending of the Vietnam War, there also was special recognition for those soldiers, including three from North Fulton who were killed in action.
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Other ceremonies and tributes in the area:
CONYERS
The Walk of Heroes Veterans War Memorial in Conyers, Georgia, was set to host an annual Memorial Day ceremony, but it was moved to Bethel Christian Church due to rain.
DACULA
The Dacula Memorial Day Parade’s theme this year was “They Answered the Call, They Paid the Price,” with World World II Army veteran James L. Davis as the grand marshal.
DUNWOODY
The City of Dunwoody held its annual Memorial Day ceremony at the Brook Run Park Veterans Memorial. U.S. Air Force Major Rick Scheff served as this year’s keynote speaker.
LOGANVILLE
The American Legion Riders of Loganville Post 233 participated in their 27th annual Ride for America. Money was raised for the Cpl. Jonathan Ayers Memorial Scholarship, the American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund and local veterans.
NEWNAN
Newnan held its Memorial Day ceremony at Veterans Park. People in attendance could also pay their respects to fallen military members at white crosses installed by the Newnan Rotary Club.
ROSWELL
The 26th annual Roswell Remembers Memorial Day Ceremony was at Roswell City Hall. The program included the presentation of colors, Honor Guard, a POW/MIA tribute, and the solemn laying of the wreath.
SENOIA
Senoia held its Memorial Day ceremony at the cemetery on Stallings Road. Georgia State House Rep. David Jenkins was the guest speaker with other remarks by Senoia Mayor Dub Pearman and U.S. Army veteran Holly Killebrew.
STOCKBRIDGE
The Memorial March of Stockbridge took place at the Merle Manders Conference Center. This year’s event included a procession and a ceremony.