WHAT IS THE NATIONAL MEMORIAL DAY ASSOCIATION OF GEORGIA?

The purpose--the sole purpose--of our Association is to honor our Veterans, both past and present and to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.  We do this through a ceremony held every Memorial Day.

​The Officers and Board of the NMDA, along with our Patron Members and Member Organizations, encourage you to honor our Veterans in a meaningful way this Memorial Day.   And by joining and supporting the NMDA, you will help assure that this particular ceremony will continue for the years ahead and for generations to come.

Event speakers

Keynote Speaker - Dr. Michael P. Shannon, President, University of North Georgia
Dr. Michael P. Shannon became President of the University of North Georgia on July 1, 2023.  He served as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army for 20 years, retiring in 2015 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.  Prior to joining the University of North Georgia, Shannon served as a member of Georgia Tech's executive leadership team and served in numerous faculty, leadership and advisory roles.  Dr. Shannon serves  veterans’ causes, is an active member of his church and is a coach for multiple local youth sports programs. He and his wife, Jessica, have four children​

Reflections Speaker - Brigadier General Dennis Watts, Commanding General, Georgia Defense Force
​Watts said he was inspired to join GSDF while listening to an episode with Clark Howard, who was a long time member and supporter of GSDF. Today, Watts hopes to inspire more veterans, people with a heart to serve, and committed residents throughout the state with the potential and opportunities provided by GSDF.

​Honoree Organization - Georgia Defense Force
The Georgia State Defense Force is a component of the Georgia Department of Defense, serving in support of the national and state constitutions under direction of the Governor and the Adjutant General of Georgia. The mission of the GDF is: When ordered by the Adjutant General, to provide an organized, trained, disciplined, rapid response volunteer force to assist state and local government agencies, and civil relief organizations in impending or actual emergencies to assure the welfare and safety of the citizens of Georgia.
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