Georgia’s official Memorial Day Ceremony was held at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton on Saturday. Among the special guests who were recognized were Odell Anderson of Summerville, Local Veterans Liaison for Senator Isakson’s office, Jan and Joe Johnson of Lyerly, and State Rep. Barbara Massey Reece. 

The Johnson’s son, Justin, was the first soldier from North Georgia to be killed in Iraq.  Jan was recently elected President of the Georgia Department of American Gold Star Mothers.  The Johnsons are also active in the Patriot Guards providing security and support for families of soldiers fallen in battle. 

Colonel Dan Holtz, GNC Advisory Council and Assistant Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Veterans Affairs, introduced the guests.  He paid special tribute to the 22 young Georgians who have lost their life in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan since last year’s Memorial Day. The keynote speaker was Colonel Brent Bracewell with the Georgia Army National Guard.  Colonel Bracewell has completed several tours on active duty in Iraq.