TAMPA, Fla. – Hillsborough County will host its 28th annual Memorial Day Observance on Sunday, May 25, at 10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park & Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum, offering the community an opportunity to honor the nation’s fallen service members. This year’s ceremony will feature the premiere of a gigantic American flag soaring over the park’s entrance.
While Memorial Day weekend often signifies the unofficial start of summer, military and Gold Star Families emphasize the holiday’s true meaning: a time to reflect on and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
The observance, organized by Hillsborough County Consumer & Veterans Services and the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County, will take place at the park located at 3602 U.S. Hwy. 301 N., Tampa, FL 33619.
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Attendees will be greeted by an enormous American flag, reaching more than 150 feet into the air over the entrance to Veterans Memorial Park. The event will also continue the tradition of the “Garden of Gold,” featuring pictorial flags honoring local Gold Star Family members, with new additions this year depicting fallen service members.
The 28th annual Memorial Day Observance program is set to include remarks from Col. Jeff J. Mrazik, Commander, 6th Operations Group, MacDill Air Force Base, and Retired U.S. Army Col. Alfred “Al” Carter, Chief of Staff, Florida Department of Veteran Affairs.
The ceremony will also feature a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) presence, a rifle salute, and the playing of Taps, traditional elements of military honors. On-site resources for Veterans and military families will be available.
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Refreshments will follow the outdoor ceremony, and the community is encouraged to visit the park’s monuments. Hillsborough County’s Veterans Memorial Park is open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission and parking.
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