Some of the most stirring moments of Duluth Fall Festival have been viewing visiting soldiers from Ft. Benning march through the Parade and then take the stage during the Opening Ceremony special recognition. The Festival’s association with Fort Benning’s 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment soldiers began in 2003 when Kathy Orcutt, a long-time Festival volunteer, suggested the idea to the Festival’s Executive Board. A bond was immediately formed between the patriotic community of Duluth and these soldiers. Every year since 2003, Orcutt, along with Russ Sheldon and Hugs for Our Soldiers (the Festival’s Military Sponsor founded by Orcutt), have spearheaded the efforts to honor the troops.
Thanks to the following sponsors who are hosting the 1-15 Infantry Soldiers in their visit to Duluth:
Military Sponsors
Burger King – Duluth
Buford Hwy. & Peachtree Industrial Blvd.
Conder Flags of Atlanta
770-409-0217 or 1-800-993-3524
Country Inn & Suites
Gwinnett Place Mall – Duluth
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts
1550 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth
Russ and Melanie Sheldon
Duluth, GA