Those men and women in the armed forces who died in defense of the country were remembered and honored Monday at the annual Memorial Day observance.

The event, held at the American Legion Post 168 in Hinesville, also offered a thanks to the upcoming 250th birthday of the U.S. Army.

“During that time, millions of people have raised their right hand and taken an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, both foreign and domestic,” Lt. Col. Jeffery Devaul-Fetters, deputy commander of the 188th Infantry Brigade. “As we think about those who fought and died for our country, we remember the Continental Army’s battle cry, which is also our theme for the anniversary of our Army’s founding. ‘This we’ll defend,’ reminds us that our Army’s purpose is clear: To fight and win the nation’s wars.”

In southeast Georgia, the 3rd Infantry Division stands as the paradigm of fulfilling that mission, Lt. Col. Devaul-Fetters said, as it explores the future of armored and mechanized warfare in its training.

“On Memorial Day, the soldiers of Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield are proud to join the rest of the Army as we reflect on our rich history and legacy of service, sacrifice and dedication,” he said. “From the Revolutionary War to present-day missions, our soldiers have consistently demonstrated their resolve to defend freedom at home and abroad.”

Soldiers in the U.S. Army, dating back to the Revolutionary War, were farmers or blacksmiths or shopkeepers. Now, the U.S. Army is hailed as the most professional army in the world.

“They all came together to fight for the right to govern themselves and have more control over their financial and social well-being,” Lt. Col. Devaul-Fetters said.

More than 6,800 American soldiers had died in battle by the end of the Revolutionary War. Disease claimed another 17,000, and several thousand more died as prisoners of war.

“On Memorial Day, as we think about those who first served our country, we remember that, as the American’s Creed states, they gave their lives and their fortunes for the freedoms we enjoy today,” Lt. Col. Devaul-Fetters said. Lt. Col. Devaul-Fetters also called upon the audience to remember the bond today’s soldiers have with those of the past and to remember those soldiers who paid the ultimate price.

“We remember what they gave for us and honor them today,” he said.