The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) and Department of Veterans Service will co-host the state’s official 2007 National Arbor Day Ceremony on Friday, April 27, in Milledgeville. The event will take place from 11am until 12 noon at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery. The event will be highlighted by keynote speaker, Georgia Lt. Governor Casey Cagle, military music, and a tree planting. Georgia Commissioner of Veterans Affairs, Pete Wheeler, will also address the group.

The public, Veterans Service Organizations and community tree groups are invited to show their support of the military and the environment by attending this distinctive ceremony. The Georgia Military Band and Youth Challenge Academy Color Guard will perform, and while they last, free dogwood seedlings will be available to those attending.

“We’re proud to be part of an event that recognizes two different, but important American traditions,” said Robert Farris, GFC Interim Director. “We are showing our patriotic support of those currently serving in the military and to our veterans. In honor of our military, we’re also taking action for the environment by planting trees, which help clean our air and water. This National Arbor Day celebration is a great opportunity for Georgians to demonstrate their support of both endeavors.”

National Arbor Day, founded by J. Sterling Morton in 1872, is celebrated to encourage tree planting and tree care. Promoted by the National Arbor Day Foundation, the last Friday in April marks the 135^th anniversary of this tree planting holiday. The Milledgeville ceremony is made possible in part by contributions from the Georgia Urban Forest Council, whose mission is “To sustain Georgia’s green legacy by helping communities grow healthy trees.”

Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery is located near Milledgeville on Highway 112 ( Vinson Highway.) For additional details and directions, visit the GFC website at www.gatrees.org or call the cemetery at 478-445-3363.