The AT District proudly participates in two annual service projects at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton.  In addition to community service, these events are opportunities for both youth and adults to learn about and appreciate the service and sacrifices of those who have given their lives in service of our country, as well as the rich history of the Canton area.

NEW FOR 2022
Memorial Day Flag Placement

BSA Scout Information
Date:  Saturday, May 28th 2022
Location:  Georgia National Cemetery 1080 Veterans Cemetery Road Canton, GA 30114
Times:  09:30 AM - 12:00 PM

THIS information is NEW from previous years.

Uniform of the day:  Full field uniform sometimes referred to as a class a.
Times:  10:00 Service & Start Time:
Recommend arrival at 08:30-9:00 and ride together as able

THIS information New This Year.  Flag placement follows the program at the assembly area.

​With permission from the National Cemetery Administration (NCA) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), The BSA supports the Georgia National Cemetery Advisory Council (GNCAC) who coordinates and funds Memorial Day observances at the cemetery. GNCAC plans a dignified morning of activities to include a ceremony with appropriate guest speakers, educational activities to engage families, headstone flag placement, and usually a patriotic flyover.
Parking fills ups fast. Arrive early or be prepared to walk a long distance.   Suggested is start arriving after 08:30-9:00-am.

09:30 Meet at main parade field.
10:00 Memorial Day Program, Assembly Area
Immediately after program Placement of Flags, Sections 1, 2, 6, 7, Columbaria and Memorial Garden
12:00-12:30 (approximate) crowd dispenses from grounds

TIPS:
During the opening program, instructions and a demonstration will be given so that Scouts will know the proper procedure and etiquette for placing the flags, however here are a few tips.
                                                            
  • Upon hearing Taps at a military ceremony, proper protocol dictates those individuals in scout uniform render a salute until the music is complete while turning and facing the bugler. Civilians should remove their headgear and place their hand over their heart. Please no talking.
  • Scouts should only carry 1 or 2 flags at a time and not a hand full.  We take our time and are methodical in protocol and procedure.
  • Place your flag at the tombstone 1 foot back and center .  Read the name and tombstone aloud.  Salute the tombstone.  Remove your cover and say a solo prayer.  Only than do we move to the next gravesite.
  • Please assure that all those interested are awarded the opportunity to participate.  You might only place 1 or 2 flags as you pay respects.
 
 

Christmas Wreath Placement

Date:  Saturday, December 18th 2021
Location:  Georgia National Cemetery 1080 Veterans Cemetery Road Canton, GA 30114
Times:  09:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Other information about event:
  • NEW COVID PROCESS:  Wreath placement is scheduled for December 17 & 18, from 9 a.m. to noon. Families of the intered and sponsors are encourage to place wreaths Friday. Volunteers are welcome to help on Saturday. No sign up is necessary. When you arrive, guides will assist you at each cemetery section.
  • ATD BSA Units are encourage to attend Saturday.
  • Parking is limited so car-pool and allow for extra time to walk from where you park.
  • Do not place any wreaths until after the section leaders have said the instructions and prayer.
  • Scouts should place one wreath at a time.  Place the wreath.  Read the head stone aloud.  Pray over the intered.  Salute.  Only then move to place another wreath.
  • Leaders of younger scouts please discuss the process prior to Saturday.
  • https://www.ganationalcemetery.org/?fbclid=IwAR2wr61774n0cOkyMStVn2eePMW8nxeQ60Z_5MbSH9OzToGYtfxHe-wNriI