Editor’s note: Erin Johnson is the creative content coordinator for the Liberty County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. 

Memorial Day is Monday. 

While we’re all out at the sandbar or grilling on our patios, it is important to remember the real reason we’re off that day. 

This holiday is to honor those who have given their lives for our freedom. As a military community, it is important to remember that and honor their lives. 

Here are just a few ways you and your family can honor the fallen soldiers right here in Liberty County.

1. Take a tour through the history of the 3rd Infantry Division. Walk the more than 14,000 square foot space featuring exhibits of the origins of Camp Stewart, history of the division and notable moments and soldiers. This location is closed on Mondays, so take a trip over to the museum today for a tour!

2. One of the newer additions to Liberty County is the Hinesville Veterans Memorial Walk at Bryant Commons. The paved walkway pays homage to all branches of the military as it encircles a small pond. The peaceful environment lends itself well to taking some time to remember those who have fought for our freedom.

3. A meaningful walk along Warriors Walk on Fort Stewart is a wonderful way to pay tribute to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. 

This walkway is lined with 468 trees honoring every soldier who has lost his or her life while fighting with the 3rd Infantry Division during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. It is a truly powerful experience.

4. Fort Morris will host its annual Memorial Day Commemoration on Monday. Take a step back in time for this annual event at the historic Revolutionary War fort that once protected Sunbury from the British. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the historically dressed soldiers, demonstrations and museum!

5. Midway Cemetery on Highway 17 is another historic spot to pay respect to Veterans of past wars. The Midway Church and Cemetery date back to 1752, during the Colonial Era. Among those buried there are Gens. Daniel Stewart and James Screven, two Americans who fought in the Revolutionary War. A monument erected in 1915 was dedicated to these two men and stands in the center of the cemetery.

6. Join American Legion Post 168 for its Memorial Day ceremony at the post Pavilion. Post 168 along with Fort Stewart will host a ceremony to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and welcome Col. Scott O’Neal as guest speaker. Join in with local veterans as they remember the fallen.

Spend your day out not only exploring Liberty County and some of its military history but also honoring those who came before us and fought for our freedom. 

We are thankful every day for our military and the work they do to keep our country free. Enjoy your Memorial Day, y’all!