GFC and Veterans Service to host National Arbor Day

MILLEDGEVILLE, GA (April 8, 2008) - The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) and Department of Veterans Service will co-host the state’s official 2008 National Arbor Day Ceremony at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Milledgeville on Friday, April 25, from 11:00 a.m. until noon. The public is urged to attend the ceremony featuring a commemorative tree planting in honor of all veterans. Brigadier General Lawrence E. Dudney will be the keynote speaker. Robert Farris, Georgia Forestry Commission Interim Director, and Georgia Commissioner of Veterans Affairs Pete Wheeler will also address the group. 

   “Two important American entities will be recognized at this National Arbor Day ceremony,” said Farris. “Our veterans, who provide protection for our great country -- and trees, the natural resource that provides clean air, water, and abundant products for every American. This is an opportunity for all of us to demonstrate our support of both of these vital assets.”

   “The Georgia Department of Veterans Service has taken part in these ceremonies since 2001,” said Commissioner Wheeler. “The beautiful, stately grounds of the Veterans Memorial Cemetery, the patriotic music, and the company of so many grateful citizens and honored veterans are special. And the public support of our military forces is a meaningful experience.” 

This year, the Georgia Military Band and Youth Challenge Academy Color Guard will perform. Free dogwood or redbud seedlings will be distributed, while they last.

National Arbor Day was founded by J. Sterling Morton in 1872 to encourage tree planting and tree care. Promoted by the National Arbor Day Foundation, the last Friday in April marks the 136th anniversary of this tree-planting holiday, which is celebrated in all 50 states and many countries worldwide.

The site for Georgia’s official 2008 ceremony, Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery, is located near Milledgeville on Highway 112 (Vinson Highway). For further information and detailed directions, visit www.gatrees.org