In a gravesite ceremony this morning, DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer Vernon Jones commemorated the life of Army Spc. Jamaal Addison in a memorial tribute on the 4^th anniversary of his death.

CEO Jones spoke to a crowd of supporters and gave heart-felt remarks to reflect the loss of a young life that was “taken too soon.”

Addison’s friends and family wore blue t-shirts displaying the face of the former DeKalb County resident. Many participants read poems and sang songs to remember the fallen soldier who was known to many as a person who made people feel joy.

“Today is about remembering his sacrifice and honoring his life,” said CEO Jones. “We are not only here honoring Jamaal Addison but all the men and women who have given their lives to ensure that we continue to enjoy our freedom. Our thoughts, prayers and support are with all the men and women who defend our country and are in harms way.”

Addison was the first Georgian to die in the Iraq War on March 23, 2003. He was 22 years old at the time of his death. He has a five-year-old son, Jamaal Addison II.

The ceremony was held at Addison’s gravesite located at Memorial Park in Lithonia, Ga.

TOP LEFT: CEO Jones greets friends and family of Jamaal Addison who came out to celebrate his life.

TOP RIGHT: Patricia Roberts (Jamaal Addison’s mother) places a wreath on the gravesite of Jamaal Addison during the 4^th anniversary memorial tribute.