Memorial Day marks the annual remembrance of those who have served for our country in the armed forces, and with that in mind the guest speakers coming to address Carolina Meadows in May includes World War I historian Dr. Samuel R. Williamson visiting our World Affairs group on May 9, Brigadier General Gary Pendleton addressing the community on Memorial Day and military historian Joseph Caddell at World Affairs on June 6.

Dr. Williamson will lead residents in a discussion on the start of World War I, what happened and why it still matters today as we quickly approach the 100^th anniversary of the start of the war. Williamson, the former President of Sewanee: The University of the South, will talk to residents about how World War I greatly influenced the future course of the 20th century. The American Historical Association’s George Louis Beer prizewinner will be available to take questions from residents and lend his insights into all things related to World War I.

General Pendleton will lead the Carolina Meadows community as it honors those who’ve lost their lives while fighting our nation’s battles. Pendleton served for 26 years and formerly commanded North Carolina’s State Defense Forces. Residents will wear blue forget-me-not pins to demonstrate we’ve not forgotten their sacrifice, with music, a reading, the pledge of allegiance and the playing of “Taps”  among the scheduled events.

 Our military appreciation continues on June 6, when UNC and NC State professor Caddell delivers a lecture on the 70^th anniversary of D-Day. Caddell is a retired Lieutenant Colonel of the U.S. Air Force Reserves with deep knowledge on air power history, the evolution of warning intelligence and the history of restraints on war. Residents are sure to be charmed by his humor and enthusiasm for the subject matter.

 Carolina Meadows welcomes all residents to these events and members of the public. We’re always looking to learn new things and hear about experiences from all walks of life. Join our active community and discover things you never knew about yourself.