Politics & Government
Statham to Observe Memorial Day and Veterans Memorial Park Bricks Can Still be Purchased
Rich in history, this Barrow County city also honors those who fought for our nation with Statham Veterans Memorial Park, set for dedication July 4, 2012. Memorial brick orders still being accepted.
According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Memorial Day was first established as Decoration Day in 1868 — just three years after the end of the Civil War.
Originally intended as a day when Americans would decorate the graves of fallen Confederate and Union soldiers with flowers, Decoration Day was held May 30 each year.
Shortly after World War II, the holiday was expanded to memorialize all fallen soldiers of American Wars and became more widely known as Memorial Day. By 1971, an act of Congress made it an official national holiday to be observed on the last Monday in May. In 2000, Congress passed the “National Moment of Remembrance Act”, setting aside 3 p.m. on Memorial Day for a moment of silence — a time for the nation to give pause in remembrance.
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This year, Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 28. Statham City Hall will be closed in observance of the holiday, but the city’s efforts to honor those who have fought and died for their country do not end there. On July 4, 2012, as part of the celebration of Independence Day, the city will dedicate Statham Veterans Memorial Park — a special place on Railroad Street near the gazebo in the heart of the historic town devoted to the brave men and women of Statham who have fought for their country. Drawings of the plans for the park are on display at .
Bricks for the memorial park are available for purchase by local residents who wish to pay tribute to a friend or family member who is or was a veteran. Due to the short time before the July 4 dedication, there is no guarantee of their placement before the park opens to the public. Bricks measuring 4" by 8" are available for $30 each and 8" by 8" bricks for $100 each. Order forms for the bricks can be picked up at Statham City Hall or the American Legion.
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The city of Statham wishes you and your family a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend.
Is there a veteran you wish to honor this Memorial Day? Tell us in comments.
Check back every Wednesday for a new City Spotlight on Statham.
