Weakley County to Host Multiple Events Honoring Memorial Day
Weakley County residents will have several opportunities to honor the sacrifices of American service members this Memorial Day, as events are planned in Martin and Dresden throughout the week.
UT Martin to Host 25th Annual Memorial Day Commemoration
The University of Tennessee at Martin will lead the week’s observances with its 25th annual Memorial Day Commemoration Ceremony on Friday, May 23 at 9:00 a.m. The event will take place at the north plaza between the Boling University Center and Paul Meek Library.
Retired Maj. Gen. Mike Maloan will deliver the keynote address. U.S. Representative David Kustoff will provide a legislative welcome, and the national anthem will be performed by Madison Butner. Chaplain Debra McGuire, U.S. Navy (Retired), will lead the invocation and benediction.
Other highlights include a 21-gun salute by UT Martin Public Safety and the Martin Police Department, the playing of Taps by Jonah Simmons, and a presentation of colors by the UT Martin Army ROTC Skyhawk Battalion cadets. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will move indoors to Watkins Auditorium.
Countywide Ceremony Set for Memorial Day in Dresden
On Monday, May 26 at 11:00 a.m., the Weakley County Veterans Affairs office will host a community-wide Memorial Day ceremony at 116 West Main Street in Dresden. Residents are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for seating.
Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to enjoy complimentary hot dogs, chips, and drinks at the American Legion Post #55 in Martin. The event will serve as a solemn tribute to the fallen and a moment for the community to come together in shared remembrance.
Patriot Tree Tribute Offers Personal Reflections
In a continuing effort to honor the county’s veterans, the Weakley County Courthouse in Dresden will feature its annual Patriot Tree Tribute leading up to Memorial Day. Organized by the Weakley County Trustee’s Office and local volunteers, the display invites families to submit photographs of relatives who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Photos will be displayed on the Patriot Tree throughout the week, creating a moving visual tribute to the sacrifices and service of local veterans. Residents can submit digital or printed images, and this year’s display includes several new names and faces from different service eras.
The tribute not only honors past and present service members but also fosters community engagement, reminding all of the personal legacies behind the holiday.
