National Memorial Day Ceremony
Marietta National Cemetery
Marietta, Georgia
May 29, 2017, 12:00 Noon
The National Memorial Day Association of Georgia and The Avenue of Flags, Inc., was founded on March 16, 1946, in Atlanta, Georgia. It is composed of individual Patron Members and of Member Organizations who wish to remember and honor the men and women who have served in the United States of America Armed Forces, the many who have given their lives to protect our freedom, the many who are now deceased, and those currently serving in the Armed Forces. According to its website, www.nmdaga.org, the specific objective and purpose of the organization, is to plan for, organize, support, and conduct annually, the Memorial Day Ceremony and The Avenue of Flags at the Marietta National Cemetery in Marietta, Georgia.
This year’s event, which was held on Monday, May 29, 2017 at the Marietta National Cemetery was the 72nd consecutive ceremony planned and conducted by the NMDA. Support for this ceremony comes from individuals, veterans’ organizations and other patriotic groups, the local military bases, the staff of Marietta National Cemetery, local Scouts and High School JROTC and several interested companies, local Police, and city and county officials. Memorial Day is one of the best opportunities for all of us to express our gratitude for those who have and are serving our country and to honor their sacrifices.
BG Tom Blackstock, President, NMDA
Major General Joe Jarrard-Adjutant General of Georgia gave the Memorial Day address and The National Memorial Day Association of Georgia President, Brig Gen Tom Blackstock, was the Master of Ceremonies. The Atlanta Concert Band performed patriotic music against a backdrop of the graves of more than 10,000 veterans from 23 states. Posting of the colors, inspiring speakers, prayers and the presentation of floral wreaths highlighted the event along with a 21-gun salute and Echo Taps, per article written by John Spink @ ajc.com.
Additionally, this year’s event honored the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation, Inc., with a $500.00 contribution! The Foundation is >a non-profit 501 (c) (3) corporation established to provide emergency relief assistance during times of financial crisis to the members and families of the Georgia National Guard. Although not a military organization, the Foundation is recognized as an official support organization of the Georgia National Guard.
