Memorial Day
About a month ago, I travelled to Washington, D.C. with the Arnold Community Council for our annual visit on behalf of AEDC. This year I was travelling with my wife and step-son so we arrived a few days early for some sight-seeing. We visited Arlington National Cemetery on a rainy Sunday afternoon.
If you've not been to Arlington National Cemetery, I recommend you visit if you ever get the chance. We made our way through the cemetery to the location of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This tomb was established shortly after World War I. You can read a brief history of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier here.
I've always found the engraving on the tomb very striking
"HERE RESTS IN HONORED GLORY AN AMERICAN SOLDIER KNOWN BUT TO GOD."
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded by sentinels who change out regularly throughout the day. Each changing of the guard is accomplished by a precision inspection drill. The sentinels are there 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There has been a sentinel on duty in front of the Tomb every minute of every day since 1937. I took the photo of the Sentinel above as he guarded the tomb in the rain.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier serves as a reminder that America does not forget our soldiers who gave their last measure, even the ones who remain unidentified. Every service member lost had a story, a family, and future aspirations. Today, on Memorial Day we pause to remember those who gave all, to preserve the freedoms we enjoy.
Memorial Day Observance in Tullahoma
This past Friday, I was honored to participate in a Memorial Day Observance at the South Jackson Performing Arts Center. This event was organized by the Shady Grove Garden Club and the turnout was excellent. A special thanks to Mrs. Sandy Sebren for all of her work on this event.
The keynote speaker for the event was Tullahoma native Brigadier General J. Bart Burton, US Army (retired) who gave a rousing speech on the meaning and significance of Memorial Day. Col Grant Mizell, Commander, AEDC dedicated this year's new pavers, which are bricks engraved with the names of service members. These will be installed at History Park downtown next to the railroad track.
I hope you join me today in taking a few minutes today to remember our fallen soldiers and especially their families. May God bless our service members and God bless America.
