Honoring Our Heroes: 2024 Memorial Day Ceremony

Memorial Day is a time for reflection, gratitude, and remembrance. This year, the Tuscaloosa County Park & Recreation Authority’s (PARA) Veterans Memorial Park Association, in collaboration with the Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center and The University of Alabama Office of Veteran and Military Affairs, hosted a moving Memorial Day Ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park. We were honored to gather with our community to pay tribute to the brave individuals who have served and sacrificed for our country.

A Day of Remembrance

The ceremony was a powerful reminder of the freedoms we cherish, made possible by the ultimate sacrifices of those who laid down their lives. Their bravery and selflessness ensure that we can live in liberty and peace. As we reflect on this day, we are reminded of the profound impact these heroes have had on our lives and the importance of honoring their legacy.

Inspiring Words and Special Acknowledgments

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Colonel Duane Lamb, Chairman of Veterans Memorial Park, who served as the master of ceremony, and to our keynote speaker, distinguished Special Forces Green Beret Officer LTC Stephen R. Kaye, for their inspiring words. Their speeches resonated deeply with all in attendance, highlighting the valor and dedication of our servicemen and women.

Our gratitude also goes to Scott Willmore, Senior Pastor of The Word Community Church, Hillcrest High School AJROTC, Yvonne Wells, Andy Paxton, LTC John Merkle, David Blair, the Tuscaloosa County American Legion Honor Guard, Tracey Benson, Jon Wiggins, Senior Pastor of Skyland Baptist Church, and the Tuscaloosa Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 2211. Your contributions made this day of honor and reflection truly special.

Community Support and Appreciation

A special thank you to Mary Harmon Young of Mary Harmon & Co. Realty for providing delicious doughnuts, which were a delightful treat for attendees. We also appreciate the dedicated efforts of PARA Park Operations for setting up the event and maintaining the beauty of Veterans Memorial Park.

Celebrating a WWII Hero

This year, we had the distinct privilege of celebrating the 96th birthday of WWII veteran James Hixon. Serving in the U.S. Navy on a minesweeper in the Pacific, Mr. Hixon's service and dedication are a testament to the courage and commitment of our veterans. Happy birthday, Mr. Hixon! 🎂

Continuing the Legacy

If you wish to honor a loved one, consider adding their name to our honor wall. Additionally, supporting the Veterans Memorial Park Association Endowment helps us preserve the legacy of our heroes for future generations. For more details on how you can contribute, please visit our website.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in making this Memorial Day Ceremony a profound and moving event. Together, we ensure that the sacrifices of our heroes are never forgotten and that their legacy lives on in the hearts of our community.