As our community marks an activity-filled Memorial Day weekend, hosting a whirlwind of graduations, athletic events and recreational opportunities, it would be easy to overlook the significance of the holiday.

That’s why it’s more than gratifying to see, not one but several observances planned that give us the opportunity, as individuals and as a community, to honor all military veterans and, especially, to pay homage to those who made the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf.

A Sunday activity should have special appeal to families. Residents are encouraged to help place flags on veteran’s graves in Shadowlawn Cemetery on New Franklin Road. Just show up at 2 p.m., ready to help. What a great way to make the holiday meaningful. Let the next generation help honor the great generations who came before.

Ceremonies led by veterans’ groups at 11 a.m. Monday at Shadowlawn and 10 a.m. Monday in Hogansville’s Hipp Park will honor our nation’s war dead.

And Monday is also an ideal time to visit the award-winning Troup County Archives where a magnificent exhibit pays tribute to more than 500 veterans with Troup County ties. Today’s front page and Living section highlight the exhibit and the special events planned Monday.

Special thanks is due Isabelle Knight, whose idea for the exhibit took root and just wouldn’t stop growing. From a worthy beginning as decorations for a LaGrange Symphony Orchestra patriotic concert a year ago, the collection of veterans’ photos has more than quadrupled and fascinating military memorabilia has been added. Many people have helped, but Knight’s enthusiastic determination - We don’t need to forget these people,” she reminds - brought others on board and created a display that would do a major city proud.

Having the support and wonderful resources of the Troup County Archives is another factor for which praise is due. Recently honored by the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation for Excellence in Stewardship, the Archives has transformed the historic former bank building on on Main Street into a marvelous history museum and archives.

“The rehabilitation of this building by its longtime stewards, Troup County Historical Society, greatly contributes to the overall revitalization of downtown LaGrange,” the Georgia Trust said.

This Memorial Day, we are proud that many people in our community are walking the walk - living out the important reminder: “Lest we forget.”

Troup County not only remembers its veterans and war dead, it does them great honor, with significant ceremonies and events on Monday.

Find a way to be a part of them.