Each year, the Dacula Memorial Day Parade brings together thousands of residents, veterans, first responders, and local businesses in a moving celebration of service, sacrifice, and American spirit. Recognized as one of the largest Memorial Day events in Georgia, the parade is more than a procession—it’s a profound tradition that honors the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.

In 2025, Good Shepherd Roofing, a proud Georgia-based and veteran-supporting company, will walk and ride in the 31st Annual Memorial Day Parade, paying tribute alongside neighbors, local heroes, and patriotic organizations.

Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, was established in 1868 by General John A. Logan to honor Union soldiers who died during the Civil War. Over time—particularly following World War I—the day expanded to commemorate all American military personnel who died in service.

In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a federal holiday, observed on the last Monday in May. While it’s often viewed as the unofficial start to summer, Memorial Day is a time for reflection, remembrance, and national unity.

Across the U.S., Americans observe the holiday with ceremonies at cemeteries, flag displays, and parades like the one held in Dacula—a living tribute that connects the past, present, and future.

Founded by Marvin Atherton in 1994, the Dacula Memorial Day Parade has grown from a community tradition into one of metro Atlanta’s largest and most heartfelt events. With an average of 90 participating units and over 10,000 spectators lining the streets, this family-friendly celebration is both educational and emotional.

2025 Parade Theme:

This year’s official theme for the 31st Annual Dacula Memorial Day Parade serves as a powerful reminder of the true purpose of Memorial Day: to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. It’s more than a phrase—it’s a truth carried by every folded flag, every etched name, and every Gold Star family who lives with an empty seat at the table.

“They Answered the Call” reflects the courage of those who stepped forward—many as volunteers, others as draftees—but all as patriots. These were citizens who put aside their personal ambitions and comfort to serve something greater than themselves: the defense of American freedom and the protection of their fellow citizens.

“They Paid the Price” is a solemn acknowledgment that service often comes with the greatest sacrifice. The freedoms we enjoy—freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom to gather as a community—exist because someone paid for them with their life. This theme reinforces that Memorial Day is not about celebration, but about commemoration.

For Good Shepherd Roofing, this theme hits close to home. Many members of our team have served in the military, have family members who did, or have been directly impacted by loss. As we march under this banner, we do so with humility and respect—grateful for the sacrifices that allow us to raise our families, build our businesses, and walk freely in the streets of our hometown.

The 2025 parade theme is a challenge to all of us: to carry the memory of the fallen with reverence, and to ensure that their stories are not forgotten with time. It asks us to do more than watch—it calls us to remember, reflect, and renew our commitment to the values they died protecting.

James L. Davis, 102 Years Old – WWII Veteran

Mr. Davis, born in 1923 in Lexington, Mississippi, served in the Pacific Theater during WWII. Drafted in 1943, he fought in Saipan and later trained soldiers in Hawaii. His life story—one of resilience, courage, and continued movement—epitomizes the values this parade seeks to preserve.

“You’ve got to keep moving.” — James L. Davis

• Start Time: 10:00 a.m. on Monday, May 26, 2025
• Route: Begins and ends at Hebron Baptist Church, 202 Hebron Church Road, Dacula, GA
• Announcing Stand Location: At the corner of Dacula Road and Fence Road, in front of the Shell gas station
• Length: 2-mile loop through historic downtown Dacula
• Weather: Rain or shine (unless lightning or extreme conditions occur)
• Crowd: 10,000+ attendees expected

The parade will feature veterans, restored military vehicles, marching bands, ROTC groups, scouts, classic cars, local churches, schools, and community businesses like Good Shepherd Roofing.

As a Local Roofing Company with deep ties to Gwinnett County, Good Shepherd Roofing is built on a foundation of integrity, tradition, and community. We don’t just work in Dacula—we live here, raise our families here, and give back here.

We walk in the parade not for exposure—but for remembrance. It’s our way of saying “thank you” to those who sacrificed and continuing the legacy they left behind.

This year, we’re proud to ride alongside with Cory Speck “Heal On Wheels” —a 10,000-mile motorcycle journey from Georgia to Alaska raising awareness for PTSD among veterans and first responders.

Founded by veterans Corey Speck and Shilo Crane, the mission is clear: raise visibility, reduce stigma, and provide support for those battling unseen wounds.

The Dacula Memorial Day Parade isn’t just a feel-good event—it’s a deeply meaningful ritual. It’s about preserving memory, educating children, and fostering patriotism in future generations.

Each float, each flag, and each step taken down the parade route is a tribute to someone who no longer can. By participating, we ensure that their stories are not lost to time.

Even after the music fades and the parade wraps up, there are ways to continue honoring our heroes. Here’s how you can help:

• Volunteer to carry a Fallen Hero sign in next year’s parade

• Support veteran-run businesses and nonprofits

• Educate your children on the meaning of Memorial Day

• Visit Wounded Warrior Project or a local VA center

• Hire veterans or offer military discounts through your company

Share their stories—keep their names spoken and remembered

It’s not about pageantry. It’s about presence. It’s about standing still while the echoes of service and loss move past us in uniform, in silence, in memory.

This Memorial Day, let’s do more than attend—let’s engage. Let’s line the streets not for entertainment, but for honor. Let’s show the next generation what gratitude looks like. And let’s carry the stories of the fallen forward—because remembrance is how legacies live on.

Honor the fallen.Thank the living. And stand united—not just on Memorial Day, but every day we’re privileged to call ourselves free.