Hillsborough County Annual Memorial Day Observance

Hillsborough County Consumer & Veterans Services and the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County invite the community to the County's 26th Annual Memorial Day Remembrance at 10 a.m.

Memorial Day weekend signals the start of summer for many Americans. But military and Gold Star Families, whose loved ones gave their lives in service to the nation, hope that others will pause to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday by honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

As has become tradition at Veterans Memorial Park, the vibrant Garden of Gold flags will be erected in tribute to fallen heroes. This emotionally moving collection depicts the faces of more than 30 sons, daughters, sisters, brothers, and spouses who gave their lives in service to the United States.

The 26th Annual Memorial Day Remembrance will feature:

-Brig. Gen. Stephen P. Snelson, Deputy Director of Operations, U.S. Central Command, as keynote speaker
-Fallen hero name-reading of Garden of Gold flags by American Gold Star Mothers, Tampa Bay
-County commissioners and other community leaders
-Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) rifle salute, taps, and patriotic music

Consumer & Veterans Services has recently installed a sail shade covering over the park's outdoor event amphitheater space to enhance visitors' comfort and protection from the elements.

Refreshments and fellowship will follow the outdoor ceremony, and visitors are encouraged to visit the monuments.