Honoring Those Who Gave Their Lives for Our Country

For many, Memorial Day weekend signals the start of summer. But military and Gold Star Families, whose loved ones gave their lives in service to our nation, hope people also take time to reflect on the holiday and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Consumer and Veterans Services and the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County invite the community to the County's 25th annual Memorial Day Remembrance on Sunday, May 29, at 10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, 3602 U.S. Hwy. 301 N., Tampa, FL 33619.

In tribute to fallen heroes from Florida, the vibrant Garden of Gold flag installation will be erected. The emotionally moving collection depicts the faces of more than 30 sons, daughters, sisters, brothers and spouses who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

The 25th annual Memorial Day Remembrance will feature:

• Col. Benjamin Jonsson, Commander, 6th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill Air Force Base, as keynote speaker
• County Commissioners and other community leaders
• Fallen hero name-reading of Garden of Gold flags by American Gold Star Mothers, Tampa Bay
• Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC), rifle salute, taps, and patriotic music
• Refreshments and fellowship follow the outdoor ceremony, and visitors are encouraged to visit the monuments.

Veterans Memorial Park in Tampa is open daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., with free admission and parking.

For more information, contact Hillsborough County Consumer and Veterans Services at (813) 635-8316.