Local veterans and civic leaders gathered on Constitution Day to show their appreciation to all men and women who have served in the armed forces by dedicating Cairo’s main city bridge in their honor Thursday, Sept. 17..
The Fifth Street bridge, which crosses over the railroad tracks at Cairo’s Fire Department was named Veterans Memorial Bridge with historical markers bearing the name placed there last week.
Tom Brown, commander of Jake M. Poller American Legion Post 122, in Cairo served as master of the ceremonies, which were held at 9:30 a.m. at the fire department.
Wayne McDonald, chaplain of Post 122, provided an opening prayer, and Rep. Darlene Taylor (R-Thomasville) provided remarks.
“We owe so much to so few,” said Taylor who spoke proudly of her father’s service and about Constitution Day, marked every Sept. 17 to commemorate its signing by the Founding Fathers.
Brown thanked officials with the Cairo-Grady County Chamber of Commerce and Grady County Joint Development Authority Courtney King and Julian Brown along with former chamber executive director Trey Gainous who often jogged across the bridge, noticed flag mounting brackets, and brought them to the attention of local officials. Brown also thanked the Cairo City Council and former Cairo Mayor Booker Gainor for their support of the naming project.
Commander Brown says soon a plaque will also be placed on the bridge that will read: “May this bridge be a lasting symbol of eternal gratitude of a thankful citizenry honoring all who devotedly served in war and peace time and especially to those who gave the last full measure of their devotion. Dedicated September 17, 2020, Jake M. Poller American Legion Post 122, Cairo, GA”.
