Command Sergeant Major Meacham Bailey of the Alabama National Guard reminded  local residents that Memorial Day is not about cookouts and Monday holidays.

“John 15:13 says it well. ‘Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.’”

“This verse speaks to the heart of what Memorial Day is about, “ he said, citing the obligation society has to remember them, and to live lives worthy of their sacrifice.

CSM Bailey deployed to the Middle East from Andalusia with the 1-117th Field Artillery Battalion, and several members of the unit were in attendance to support him.