The Carl Vinson VA Medical Center will host its annual Memorial Day program Monday, May 27 at 11:00 a.m. in its auditorium.
 
Scott Whittington, Chief of Communications at the medical center and a former Marine with 14 years of service and two tours overseas, will coordinate the event and emphasized the importance of Memorial Day as a time for Americans to appreciate all those who served for the sacrifices for the country.
 
“There are a few times each year the VA and its Community come together to celebrate our veterans. This is one of our premier events at our medical center to celebrate those who have died for our country. I encourage anyone who wants to attend to come and join us,” Whittington said.
 
Memorial Day, an annual federal holiday occurring on the last Monday in May, is set aside to remember the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Originally known as Decoration Day, it began after the American Civil War to commemorate deceased Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the Civil War. Often Memorial Day is used as a way of marking the start of the summer vacation season, with Labor Day marking its end. The medical center is extending an invitation to all patriotic persons to join the VA in celebrating the lives of American veterans who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
 
“We want to have many more events that are open to our community. It’s important for our community and stakeholders know what we do to care for America’s heroes, and it gives us a chance to educate them about veterans and the sacrifices that they have made. An especially important part of this education is to involve young people so that they can carry on our patriotic traditions. That’s why getting groups involved at our medical center is so critical for future success,” Whittington said.
For media inquiries and schedule interviews, please contact Carl Vinson VAMC Chief of Communications and Stakeholder Relations Scott Whittington at 478-272-1210 ext. 5440 or via email at [email protected].