As Veterans Day approaches, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by so many brave men and women who have served to defend and protect our freedom. Communities around the country are coming together to recognize and show appreciation for veterans and current members of the armed forces in a plethora of ways. We have highlighted local events honoring veterans that the community is invited to attend. By Francesca Augello
Suwanee’s “Greater Good” Veterans Memorial Dedication
Town Center on Main 421 Main St., Suwanee
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9TH AT 10AM
The City of Suwanee will host a dedication of the memorial sculpture – titled “Greater Good.” The sculpture was supported by a donation from the Scott Hudgens Family Foundation, and its installation will be celebrated and recognized during the event. Michael Szabo, the sculpture’s creator, says, “My aim in this memorial is to offer veterans a place to reconnect to their branch and to reflect and experience the personal meaning of their military service. At the same time, this space should allow those who did not serve to gain understanding and inspire them to consider their own contribution to the greater good.” There are more than 200 dedication plaques surrounding the sculpture sponsored by local residents to honor their family’s service members. The dedication ceremony will be a special tribute to those in our community who have served our country, and will include a guest speaker, comments from the sculpture’s artist, patriotic music, and remarks by local officials. Limited seating will be available, so guests are invited to bring a chair if they would like. No RSVP is necessary, and the event is open to the public.
Suwanee Veterans Memorial Recognition and Celebration
Town Center on Main 421 Main St., Suwanee
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10TH AT 1PM
The Suwanee Creek Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution invite the community to a Veterans Day Celebration. Hosted in the new park, Town Center on Main, the celebration will take place around the Veterans memorial sculpture “Greater Good.” The speaker for the celebration is retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Patricia Jane Harrington. The North Gwinnett High School JROTC will be doing the flag ceremony, and the event will feature country music artist Andy Velo. This ceremony will take place during the Suwanee Classic Car Show in the new park.
Johns Creek Veterans Memorial Walk
Newtown Park / 315 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9TH FROM 9-10AM
The community is invited to a ceremony honoring veterans on Saturday, November 9th at 9 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Walk at Newtown Park. The walk welcomes visitors year-round, and stands as a symbol of remembrance and respect for all the men and women who have and currently serve in the United States Armed Services. This walk is sponsored by the Johns Creek Veterans Association, and the donations it raises are what keep the grounds and all of their memorials afloat. This park pays homage to every war from WWI to the present, even honoring special groups such as Purple Heart Recipients, POW/MIAs, and Women in Service. For more information, visit JohnscreekGA.gov/Events.
Sugar Hill Veterans Day Ceremony
5029 Broad St., Sugar Hill
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11TH FROM 10:30AM-12PM
The City of Sugar Hill is proud to honor veterans during a special ceremony it hosts annually on Veterans Day, November 11th at the Veterans Memorial. The ceremony, starting at 10:30 a.m., will include music from The Broad St. Concert Band, a flag raising, and remarks from the Sugar Hill Historic Preservation Society and the Suwanee Creek Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. For more information, visit CityofSugarHill.com/Events.
