PHOTOS

[nicholascolephotographer]

 

The key note speaker said in his mind the two greatest writings in world history were, The US Constitution and the Bible and the greatest of these is the Bible.

 

“No matter who the populous has elected to office, we, the military, serve no king, queen, president or any one person. We serve to protect the CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES which starts out with these three words. 'WE THE PEOPLE'”.

 

It was a great delivery given without a prepared text. It was good to hear someone speak right from the heart. His comments were appreciated by all in attendance.

 

From the firing of the civil war guns, the 21 gun solute, laying or wreaths, comments from other dignitaries, band music to the playing of taps it was a great afternoon.

 

For me, this is a special time each year, not only from a veteran's view but the land for the cemetery was provided by my great grandfather.

 

 

The following is from the web site of the National Memorial Day Association of Georgia and The Avenue of Flags

 

Marietta National Cemetery · Marietta, Georgia

May 25, 2009 · 12:00 pm

 

The Marietta National Cemetery is canonized ground. Inside its storied gates are buried more than 10,000 veterans, spanning 23 states, from New York and Michigan to Alabama and Georgia. Men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in other wars also rest peacefully at the 139-year-old cemetery.

 

For more than a half century now, a ceremony has occurred every Memorial Day at Marietta National Cemetery to honor all those who served and gave their life for our country’s freedom. It is a time to reflect on — and honor — those who stood heroically by their country during battle and who are today making the same unshakable commitment of valor in far away lands. Sponsored by the National Memorial Day Association of Georgia and The Avenue of Flags, this year’s event promises to once again stir emotions and teach young and old alike what the words duty, honor and country truly mean.

 

With the help of the Boy Scouts of America, flags will be placed beside every grave at the cemetery before the official ceremony begins. The event will begin at noon on May 30th and will feature patriotic music, posting of the colors, prayers, a gun salute and inspiring speakers. All veterans, as well the general public, are invited to attend what will be a meaningful and memorable ceremony.

 

Guest speaker:  Major General Jerome Johnson

Major General Johnson's Biography (PDF)

 

Honoree Organization for 2009 Ceremony:

The Military Order of the Purple Heart

 

 

Click here for more information about the day.

[Beach Bum]

Great pictures Nicholas - you always do a great job! Thanks also for your service to our country and to your great grandfather for donating the land for the cemetery - what an incredibly generous thing for him to do!

[cmdudley]

Great pics! Thanks for sharing!

[nicholascolephotographer]

Bump for what happened yesterday.