Paying tribute

Patriotism runs deep throughout Walton EMC’s 10-county service area. The many elaborate memorials erected as symbols of gratitude and remembrance of Armed Forces members testify to the fact. Veterans Day is an opportunity to pay tribute to these local heroes while also exploring landmarks that are works of art.

Walton County Veterans Memorial Park (Walton County)

• Walton County Government Building | 303 South Hammond Drive, Monroe
• The memorial dedicated in 2018 honors veterans from all wars and branches of the military. The Fallen Heroes Memorial Garden, monuments, dedication walls and benches pay tribute to those serving in conflicts dating back to the Revolutionary War.

Loganville Veterans Memorial (Walton County)

• Walton County Health Department | Corner of Broad and Pecan Street, Loganville
• All military branches are remembered at this memorial standing on property where Loganville City Hall was once located. Loganville is recognized as a Purple Heart City.

Snellville Veterans Memorial (Gwinnett County)

• Snellville City Hall | 2342 Oak Road, Snellville
• Under the banner “Freedom is Never Free,” the memorial features the Wall of Veterans, an eternal flame and a 6-foot waterfall. A Veterans Day Celebration is set for 3 p.m. on Nov. 11 at the site.

Gwinnett Fallen Heroes Memorial (Gwinnett County)

• Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center | 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville
• A 200-pound bronze eagle, sculpted by local firefighter Vic McCallum, is the centerpiece of the tribute that also features 13 black granite markers bearing the names of approximately 700 honorees. The memorial serves as the backdrop for Gwinnett County’s annual Veterans Day ceremony set for Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.

Oconee Veterans Memorial (Oconee County)

• Veterans Memorial Park | 3500 Hog Mountain Road, Watkinsville
• The sculpture titled “Freedom” welcomes visitors into the memorial garden recognizing Oconee County citizens who have served their country since World War I. A Veterans Day program is planned for Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.

Never Forgotten Mural (Morgan County)

• East Main Street, Rutledge
• Painted by University of Georgia art students in 2017, the mural titled “Never Forgotten” is a different type of tribute to service members. Down the street at Veteran’s Park, flags fly in tribute to all branches of the military.

Walk of Heroes Veterans Memorial Park (Rockdale County)

• 3001 Black Shoals Road NE, Conyers
• The tranquil three-acre park alongside Black Shoals Lake features a walkway crossed by engraved marble bands, each representing a year when American Armed Forces were deployed overseas in conflicts and as peacekeepers. The memorial’s 25th anniversary will be celebrated in conjunction with the annual Veterans Day program on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.