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Several events set for Memorial Day
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Newton County will remember its veterans who gave their all with several events through Memorial Day.

The most visible tribute is a collection of crosses that bear the names of fallen heroes from the county that were erected by American Legion Post 32 at the intersection of Emory Street and U.S. Highway 278.

The crosses in past years were posted along Highway 278 but have been relocated to the Newton Federal Bank lot due to roadwork. Johnny Smith of Newton Federal said the bank is more than happy to house the crosses and to honor the veterans.

At 11 a.m. Saturday, the Newton County Republican Party will stage a Memorial Day event in downtown Covington on the square.

Veterans, particularly those from World War II and the Korean War, will be honored at the event.

"We want to give special recognition to veterans of World War II and the Korean War. They're dying fast and furious," said local GOP Chairwoman Delia Fleming.

The event will feature two speakers, U.S. Rep. Rob Woodall (R-Lawrenceville), and local attorney and former Marine John Degonia. There will be a speech about the importance of the American flag along with celebratory music.

If you would like a family member to be recognized for their service in those wars, call District Five Commissioner Tim Fleming at (770) 364-4429.

At 10 a.m. on Memorial Day, American Legion Post 32 will honor local military personnel with an observance downtown on the square. Former state Sen. John Douglas of Social Circle will be the keynote speaker. The post will also place a wreath at the war memorial on the square.

Also on Memorial Day, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2938 will assemble at Lawnwood Cemetery at 10 a.m. to put flags on the final resting places of local veterans.

Michael French, post commander, will give a speech following the national anthem and Pledge of Allegiance to give tribute to the U.S. military.

"I will be reading part of an editorial written by Richard L. Eubanks - the commander-in-chief of the VFW - and elaborating on it," French said. "It says right there [in the editorial] what Memorial Day really is about."

The Honor Salute that normally follows the event will not occur this year.

Reporter Gabe Khouli contributed to this report.