Perry observes Memorial Day at Perry Memorial Gardens

PERRY, Ga. — The city of Perry took the time to honor our nation’s fallen military during a heartfelt ceremony at Perry Memorial Gardens on Monday Morning.

A local affair, the ceremony featured performers from Perry High School, as well as local leadership. The community, veterans, and government leaders also gathered to pay tribute.

Bill Crawley delivered the opening prayer with reverence, honoring those who have lost their lives in service to the nation.

“We pray for the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in service to our nation. May they find comfort and peace in the knowledge that their loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice for a cause greater than themselves,” Crawley said.

After Crawley, Mayor Randall Walker spoke, opening by expressing humility among veterans, thanking them for their service.

He then spoke on the importance of remembrance, quoting the orator Daniel Webster.

“‘Let their remembrance be as lasting as the land they honored.’ Let us never forget the price they paid that we may remain free in this great nation,” Walker said.

Robert Griggers, a Marine veteran, took the podium next, delivering a moving speech.

He first explained the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial day, saying veterans day is a cause for celebration, while Memorial Day is a cause for reflection and sharing memories.

He then explained the origin of Memorial Day, originally “Decoration Day,” before becoming a holiday in 1971.

“The holiday’s name changed, but its intention has not. Memorial Day is a day for both grief and celebration, reflecting on the tragic loss of life and recounting the courageousness of their service,” Griggers said.

Griggers shared anecdotes, and explained the significance of doing so.

“The stories of the fallen matter, and they need to be told. By sharing their stories, we keep their memories alive and give others a glimpse into military service, that aims to inspire them to create a better world, a stronger nation, and a kinder community,” Griggers said.

Griggers encouraged the crowd to continue honoring after Memorial Day, then closed by bringing awareness to those who suffer from mental health issues, saying they left the war, but it continues for them.

“They too have lost their lives, and we need to remember them,” Griggers said.

After Griggers spoke, a moment of silence was taken. Then, members from the VFW post 6126 and Auxiliary Post 6126 laid a symbolic wreath on the grounds, while Tammy Urbansky played Taps, closing the ceremony.

HHJ News