Monday, May 28th, 2007 is Memorial Day.  Many look upon this as the first long weekend of the summer - time to head to the lake, the mountains or where ever you enjoy spending your long  weekends! Memorial Day  was formerly known as Decoration Day. This holiday commemorates U.S. men and women who have died in military service to their country.

My grandfather, Mr. Robert Chandler Ray, proudly served in World War II in the 134th Infantry Regiment.  On Memorial Day, he grows quiet as he thinks of the companions, friends and family he lost during the war.  I am blessed to have an Oral History that my son, Chris DeRepentigny, transcribed as part of a history project, because I was a girl...he didn't like to share his war stories with me.

Near Atlanta, Georgia, Dave Maddlone, Groundskeeper turns his lawn into an emotionally moving tribute with a little piece of Normandy, France. According to Dave, "For the past three years - for two weeks around D-Day, 6th of June, after being inspired by the movie "Saving Private Ryan", I have been erecting this sample of 42 Normandy monuments as a tribute to the brave souls who stormed ashore in the face of blistering fire, with nothing more than their M1 rifle, and fierce determination."  Visit D-Day0606 for more information, photos and a schedule regarding this wonderful remembrance.

Monika McGillicuddy wrote about a very disturbing incident during a funeral for a fallen soldier in a moving piece called Hate and followed it up with Flag Man Found about a super special group who honor our fallen soldiers.  These articles have weighed heavily on my mind for quite awhile now.  President George W. Bush has proclaimed this Memorial Day as a day of prayer for permanent peace.  I'm posting this a week early so you have plenty of time to reflect and offer up thoughts of thanksgiving for those who have served.  Regardless of your political views on the current war or wars in the past, I call on you to take a moment and pray for the family members mourning their losses, for the lives given in service and for those who serve today.

Athens, Georgia Memorial Day Activities:

Memorial Day in Memorial Park
Celebrate Memorial Day with neighbors and friends at Memorial Park! On this special day there will be there will be a variety of activities to enjoy in the park, such as inflatable toys and games/crafts on the basketball court, bingo in the recreation hall, free pool admission and a special ceremony in front of the Flag at 3 p.m. This event is for all ages!

Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Date: May 28, 2007
Location:Memorial Park
Fee:Free!

Michelle DeRepentigny, Broker - Success Realty

706-543-1553  office      706-207-2502  cell

Michelle@SuccessRealtyGa.com       Success Realty website

1069 Baxter Street, Athens, GA  30606

All information believed accurate, but not guaranteed.