Metro Atlanta honors those who died for their country on Memorial Day
Memorial Day 2025
Monday, we honor the heroes who gave their lives in service to our nation. From countries far away to the skies above our own cities, their sacrifices are the foundation of our freedom.
ATLANTA - Communities across metro Atlanta came together Monday to remember and honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States. From solemn ceremonies to patriotic parades, Memorial Day was marked with pride, gratitude, and reflection.
Roswell Ceremony Draws Families and Veterans
In Roswell, dozens gathered for a moving Memorial Day ceremony filled with song, prayer, and tributes to the fallen. Families with young children were among those in attendance, many saying they brought their kids to teach them the importance of honoring those who sacrificed everything for their country.
The event included a wreath-laying and a tribute to prisoners of war and service members still missing in action. One veteran told FOX 5's Alexa Lee that the presence of so many young attendees gave him chills and hope for the future.
"We have a recruiting slump right now across the nation, so I think just having the youth come out and see this reverence toward these soldiers and airmen and Marines and Navy, I think that is very important for that to carry on as well," the veteran said.
READ MORE: Roswell Rotary Club marks 26th year of honoring POWs, MIAs and the fallen
Alexa Liacko reporting
Memorial Day ceremonies on Monday
Multiple Memorial Day ceremonies took place on Monday in the metro Atlanta area. FOX 5 Atlanta stopped by Roswell Remembers and the parade in Dacula.
Gwinnett County Memorial Day ceremony honors fallen helicopter pilot
The Gwinnett County community came together to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, including two local heroes who died in the last year.
The sound of taps echoed in a Gwinnett County auditorium; it was a reminder that the freedom we hold so dear is paid for with sacrifice.
At Gwinnett County’s ceremony on Monday afternoon, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Ryan O’Hara was inducted into the county’s Fallen Heroes Memorial.
O’Hara grew up in Lilburn and graduated from Parkview High School before he joined the Army.
READ MORE: Gwinnett County honors fallen soldiers at 22nd annual Memorial Day ceremony
Tyler Fingert reporting
Dacula Parade Honors 102-Year-Old WWII Veteran
Memorial Day parade in Dacula
Dacula held its 31st annual Memorial Day Parade on May 26. 102-year-old WWII veteran James L. Davis was the grand marshal.
In Gwinnett County, the 31st annual Dacula Memorial Day Parade stepped off at 10 a.m., led by this year’s grand marshal—102-year-old Army veteran James Davis, who served in World War II. The parade, one of the largest in Georgia, followed a two-mile loop and featured veterans’ organizations, marching bands, church groups, scouts, and local businesses.
This year’s theme, "They Answered the Call. They Paid the Price," was reflected in powerful imagery as volunteers carried signs with the names and photos of more than 300 fallen heroes.
"The pictures are the most moving... some of them are so young. It just strikes me how early they lost their lives in the service of our country," said one attendee.
Kaitlyn Pratt reporting
Cherokee County Remembers at Georgia National Cemetery
Memorial Day observances around metro Atlanta
To honor those who fought and died for our country, there are multiple observations being held around the metro Atlanta area.
On Saturday, a Memorial Day remembrance ceremony was held at Georgia National Cemetery in Cherokee County. Dozens gathered to pay their respects among rows of red, white, and blue flags placed at veterans’ gravesites.
One visitor told FOX 5 the location holds deep personal meaning.
"My World War II veteran dad is buried here along with my mother. I served also. So when my day comes, I’ll be here as well. It’s a beautiful park," he said.
The event included a moment of silence and a ceremonial wreath-laying.
READ MORE: Widow honors fallen heroes with flowers at Georgia National Cemetery
Rob DiRienzo reporting
Also in Cherokee County, the Shepherd’s Men held a 12-mile march into Woodstock.
Shepherd’s Men says it’s raised more than $11 million since 2014 when it was founded, which has enabled around 300 veterans to participate in the SHARE Military Initiative.
READ MORE: Shepherd’s Men march 12 miles to honor veterans, raise funds for SHARE program
Eric Mock reporting
Stone Mountain to Close Day with Fireworks and Drones
The day of remembrance will conclude with a special fireworks and drone show at Stone Mountain Park, paying tribute to the nation’s fallen service members. Tickets for the evening event are still available.
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