BBQ’s, beach going, slip-n-slides and watermelon eating contests are happening all around the country. Without the red, white & blue cupcakes or mini flags in the potato salad many might not realize Memorial Day was meant to honor soldiers that served our country and died while doing it.

Take a look at what the History Channel can tell us about the history of Memorial Day by clicking here.

Speaking of serving our country, this Memorial Day I’d like to bring up a veteran, his story and his current situation. His name is Charles Talley and he’s the father of Gary Talley. I recently became acquainted with Gary, the original & current guitarist from the Box Tops. The Box Tops performed many classic hits like “The Letter” and “Cry Like a Baby”.

Gary’s father Charles Talley is a decorated combat veteran of World War II and he needs help. He was awarded the Purple Heart but he will not receive his VA benefits for quite some time.

Please visit http://www.charlesandnitatalley.com for more information about Gary’s parents and ways you can help.

Charles Talley

The Charles and Nita Talley Fund
C/O: Gary Talley
620 West End Circle
Franklin, TN 37064

If you’re in the Memphis, TN area you can check out the Box Tops this Friday, May 29th, at 8:00 PM . For more details, see Gary’s MySpace page.  

 www.myspace.com/garytalley