Manatee County residents have observed Memorial Day since it originated in 1868 following the Civil War. It was established as a national holiday in 1971 as a day for visiting cemeteries and memorial services to honor the men and women who died while serving in the military.
Below are four photographs from the Bradenton archives which highlight the repect shown in Manatee County for those who served in the military.
Vietnam veterans Billy Coffey, left, and Robert Westbrook salute after placing flowers at the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial on May 26, 1987, at the Manatee County Courthouse.
Palmetto resident Tom Stephens stops to pay respects at the grave of his brother, George, on May 25, 1987, at Mansion Memorial Park, after Memorial Day ceremonies honoring deceased military veterans.
George Stephens, a Vietnam veteran, died the previous February.
A note on the War Memorial in front of the Manatee County Courthouse reads, "Capt. Robert Nelson - Green Beret - We shall meet again. Love Mom."
Evelyn Nelson posted the note to her son on the morning of May 27, 1985.
Boy Scouts Mike Holliday, left, and Bobby Wolter plant American flags at the head stones of deceased military veterans May 30, 1983 at one of the local cemeteries.
If you know where any of these people are spending Memorial Day this year, please send me a message at cnudi@bradenton.com
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