City Manager John McDonough, left, and Mayor Rusty Paul celebrated the grand opening of Sandy Springs City Hall in 2018. McDonough returns to Galambos Way to serve as the Veterans Day Tribute keynote speaker. (Phil Mosier)

Sandy Springs will hold its 15th annual Veterans Day Tribute at Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center on Monday, Nov. 11.

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. John McDonough, who served as city manager from 2006 to 2019, will be the keynote speaker.

A city news release said the event, which is free and open to the public, begins at 11 a.m. in Byers Theatre. After the tribute in the theatre, attendees will be escorted across the street to Veterans Park to dedicate two new art sculptures.

Curtis Pittman’s “Be the Light,” a 33-foot internally lit structure designed to emulate a flame, is designed so visitors can walk under and through the sculpture. The seven spires representing the seven military branches reflect Pittman’s vision of creating an aspirational tribute to those who serve.

Kevin Chambers’ “Three Generations” is a bronze statue depicting a multi-generational family honoring a loved one who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Those wishing to pay tribute to loved ones with personalized pavers and benches can visit spr.gs/veterans. Event details can be found at www.SandySpringsGA.gov/veteransday.

Bob Pepalis is a freelance journalist based in metro Atlanta.