Gallatin to Host Patriotic Decoration Day Ceremony

In honor of Memorial Day Weekend, the City of Gallatin invites the public and elected officials to a powerful and elevated Decoration Day ceremony at the Gallatin City Cemetery, a moving tribute to those who have given their lives in service to the United States from the Revolutionary War through present-day conflicts.

The 30-minute ceremony, taking place at one of the city’s most historic resting places, will embrace the enduring symbolism of the American flag and reflect on the sacrifice of generations of servicemen and women.
Highlights include:

• The “Missing Man Formation” a solemn aerial flyover by a group of pilots honoring fallen aviators.
• 21-Gun Salute and Live Cannon Fire, presented by the Tennessee Sons of the American Revolution.
• A stirring vocal performance of “God Bless America” by Miss Sumner County, Olivia Ring.
• A special reading of the poem “It Only Takes Three Notes” by the City of Gallatin Poet Laureate Kevin Chopson, honoring the emotional resonance of patriotic music and memory.
• Testimonies and tributes from distinguished speakers, including:
  • Historian Ken Thomson
  • Family members of local heroes laid to rest in the cemetery

  • Lt. Col. Neil Burgess, USMC (Ret.), F/A-18 Pilot – reflecting on the enduring importance of honoring fallen service men.

• Cemetery Headstone Workshop, where attendees will have the opportunity to clean headstones dating back more than 200 years.