Today marks a special celebration in United States history. The Fort Hawkins commission and the United States Daughters of 18-12 make sure it's a day that won't soon be forgotten.

Marty Willett, Fort Hawkins Commission Project Coordinator, quotes the National Anthem, "The bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there."

A historic marker is placed at Fort Hawkins as part of the "War of 1812 Bicentennial Celebration".
Fort Hawkins played a significant role in that war.

"As we are all here to talk about today, played a very important part in the war of 1812, serving to defend the southern border of the United States." says Mayor of Macon, Robert Reichert.

The Major Phillip Cook Chapter of the United States Daughters of the War of 1812 was joined by the Fort Hawkins Commission to commemorate the day.

Mike Cranford, Chair of Fort Hawkins Commission, thanks his commission member for their commitment for events like these, "Fort Hawkins is the birth place of the city of Macon and the commission has been diligent in excavating the site, collecting and preserving the artifacts and raising money for our new visitor's center."

Dignitaries from across the state and nation attend the Marker dedication to commended Fort Hawkins continued service to the country.

COL Steve Abolt, Commander of the 7th U.S. Infantry History Association, commends Fort Hawkins, "America will be great as long as individuals such as you believe in it. Being a part of something which you really knew none of these men or women but you believe in it. That is the hope of America."

Those in attendance reflect on the meaning of the war for the country, as the day was proclaimed a day of celebration in the city of Macon.

"And whereas Fort Hawkins a U.S. Army and Georgia militia headquarters, located in Macon played an important role." adds Reichert.

The birth place of the city of Macon is not the only thing admired on the 200 year celebration of declared war against Great Britain.

"We should always remember all of our military troops that have served in the past and are still serving this great country." says Cranford.

One solider during the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key, wrote a poem that resulted in the birth of the U.S. national anthem.

"Oh say does that Star - Spangled Banner yet wave over the land of the free and the home of the brave." Willett adds.

The United States Daughters of 1812, was founded in 1892 and is a volunteer women's service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving and increasing knowledge of the history of the American people