27-05-2025
Augustans gather at All-Wars monument for 157th observance of Memorial Day
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)- Several ceremonies are taking place across the CSRA for Memorial Day, including the annual gathering at the All-Wars monument.
This annual tradition in the Garden City brings community members, veterans, and those currently serving together, to pause and reflect on the men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.
The Augusta Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars hosting veterans across several military branches and those currently serving.
State leaders remember our fallen soldiers for showing what it means to be an American.
'These values have made our military the greatest and most lethal military force in history,' said Congressman Rick Allen. 'It's service above self. You never leave a soldier on the battlefield, and you're willing to make the greatest sacrifice—your life—to save another.'
Nearly a million and a half veterans lost their lives in combat.
Mayor Garnett Johnson joined Congressman Allen with remarks, remembering three of those heroes who called Augusta home.
'You think about Jimmy Dyess, who lost his life during World War II. Nathaniel Johnson, who was a Glenn Hills High School graduate and played football, lost his life in 2003 during the Iraq War. And then there's Joseph Bowen, who lost his life during the Korean War, and his remains were not so long ago brought back to Augusta,' said Johnson. 'A lot of people say it's the unofficial start of summer—and I don't see it that way. It's a day we honor those who made that sacrifice so we can enjoy our freedoms Sunday through Saturday, 24/7, and 365.'
District 5 Commissioner Don Clark also served in the Armed Forces.
He and others are remembering the ones who gave it all for the freedoms Americans enjoy every day.
'It means a lot as a veteran that served to be honored—to observe with folks that are no longer with us. But their families and us continue to carry their legacies forward,' said Clark.
'You can't say no, don't go to a ball game, or no, don't have a hot dog, don't do that. That's important to bond with your family and friends. But, just remember—the people who went out and didn't come home made it possible for you to do that,' said Sergeant Major Michael Culbertson.
Clark also continues to advocate for a veterans cemetery to come to Augusta—an effort that's been ongoing for more than 5 years.
'We have a thriving community of veterans, of active-duty service members. The only thing missing is a suitable resting place where we can collect everyone together,' said Clark. 'I think it's long overdue, and we just have to keep fighting to ensure that it comes to fruition.'
Monday also marks the 157th observance of Memorial Day, dating back to 1868.
That's why those attending say honoring the lives that were lost is a tradition that must continue.
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