On Monday, May 30, 2022, at 11:00 am, Fort Donelson National Cemetery will be the site of its memorial service, hosted by the National Park Service and the Stewart County Veterans Affairs Office, with this year’s program facilitated by the Carl E. Wallace Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4730. Also participating will be other veteran organizations, local civic, and scout groups.

Guest speaker for the program will be Sergeant First Class Michael Rapp, United States Army, retired. Born in Bad Tolz, German, and raised in Dover, Tennessee, Rapp graduated from Stewart County High School in 2000. Following enlistment to the Army he reported to Fort Campbell, where he reported to the 2-44th Air Defense Artillery Regiment. Rapp was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2005 and 2008, he again honorably served while in deployment of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“We invite veterans, active-duty service members, their families, and the public to join us as we pause to remember the millions of service men and women who have served and died in the defense of our nation, providing for, and maintaining the freedoms that we cherish,” shared Brian McCutchen, Superintendent of the Fort Donelson National Cemetery, and the Fort Donelson National Battlefield.

Because of Memorial Day occurring in late May, and the national cemetery having minimal shade, those attending are encouraged to dress appropriately, bring bottled water, and, as seating is not provided, consider bringing a lawn chair or blanket.

Any location changes will be posted on www.nps.gov/fodo or