In today’s commercial world, some might think the reason for this holiday weekend is to give retailers a chance to sell mattresses at a discount or more beer for your holiday cookout.

A visit to the Lawton House in a Oviedo brings this weekend into sharp focus. For the second year in a row, the historic house in Oviedo is hosting a tribute to the men and women of Florida who have paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country.

There will be a Memorial Day service at 9 AM Saturday to honor all of our fallen heroes. The crosses on Lawton’s front lawn are an important reminder of the dedication and sacrifice Americans are willing to give to protect our freedom – both here at home and around the globe.

 
Jim Vanderbleek built more than 370 crosses – one for every military member from Florida who died while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Each cross holds a wreath created by 17 year old Conner MacFarlane and refurbished by his 14 year old sister Chloe. One of the crosses is in honor of their father, who died in Afghanistan in 2012.

The Memorial Day events are a joint effort of the First United Methodist Church of Oviedo’s Military Support Team, area churches, Jim Vanderbleek and Girl Scout Troop 538.

The Lawton house is located at 200 West Broadway.