Jan Zink, local

resident and cochairman of the Peachtree City Recreation Commission, will

coordinate the development of the surprise.

"Beginning

immediately, we will be accepting items from Peachtree City residents,"

said Zink. "We're looking for items that in some way commemorate

a loved one or friend who died in service to our country. These items

will become part of a larger, permanent commemoration that will reflect

our civic pride in honoring those who have paid the ultimate price to

give us our freedom."

Memorial Day

is celebrated each year to remember those who have died while in service

to the United States. This not only includes the military services, but

also other federal agencies such as the CIA or FBI, local law enforcement

agencies and others who serve for the greater good. This will also include

those killed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, since those people are

considered the first casualties in the war on terrorism.

"We want

to make sure people understand that it is not only the military services

who defend our freedom on a daily basis," said Gaddo, who is a retired

Marine. "Everyone has a part in the freedom process, and we want

to memorialize them all in this community symbol of national unity and

resolve."

Examples of

items being sought are military medals, unit patches, letters, military

or government service memorabilia, photographs and other items that in

some way memorialize a person or group of people who have made the ultimate

sacrifice for freedom. Zink will have the final word on whether a contribution

is acceptable.

The final size

of the surprise depends on the number of contributions, and Zink stressed

that items will not be returned. "Please don't contribute an item

that is irreplaceable or that you want returned," she said.

Gaddo said

the final product will be permanently displayed in public buildings such

as the library.

There are guidelines

on what can be contributed. "We are looking for relatively small

items," Zink said. No items, including photographs, should be larger

than eight by 10 inches in diameter, and no more than three inches thick.

Items can be

delivered to the Recreation Department at 191 McIntosh Trail from 8 a.m.

to 5 p.m. weekdays. Contributors are asked to have a sheet of paper attached

to each item giving the name, address, phone number and a brief explanation

of the item and its significance. For information phone 770-631-2542.

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