Memorial Day Column: Also Remember Families of Loved Ones Lost

Note: Sen. Bill Heath serves as Chairman of the Government Oversight Committee. He represents the 31st Senate District which consists of Haralson and Polk counties and portions of Paulding County. He may be reached at 404-656-3943 or by email at billheath@billheath.net.

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By Sen. Bill Heath (R–Bremen)

As poetic as it sounds, the last Monday in May marks the day on the calendar to observe Memorial Day. This year, it’s Monday, May 25. Nationally, moments of remembrance will occur at 3 p.m. local time. Whether you’re taking a trip to visit a veteran’s cemetery or celebrating with a community cook out, the purpose for these special moments is to honor those who have died so that we can live our lives with freedom.

Around the state capitol building there are several monuments built to honor Georgians who have served and lost their lives in conflicts past and present, all in defense of our country. It can easily slip out of mind that our country is currently involved in a military effort in the Middle East. Every day, men and women step out of military bases in areas of operation to confront life-threatening danger.

In recent memory, there’s Army Staff Sgt. Joshua Bowden who died after his unit came under fire in Ghazni, Afghanistan. SSG Bowden was only 28 when he lost his life during a mission in 2013. He was from nearby Villa Rica, Georgia. SSG Bowden’s story is only one example of courage and sacrifice that is to be honored on Memorial Day.

Sadly, many families lose sons, daughters, fathers and mothers to military service. As part of your observation of Memorial Day, remember the family members of veterans who gave their lives for our country. Their sacrifices deserve our thanks as well.

If you’re looking for things to do this weekend, http://gastateparks.org/ has a number of events that are fun for all ages. I hope you have a safe and happy Memorial Day. It is my honor to serve as your state Senator and represent Georgia’s 31st Senate District.