On Feb. 11, The Earl Smith Strand Theatre was filled with guests bursting with pride and patriotism. "Hearts for Heroes," benefiting the Aviation Wing of the Marietta Museum of History, was a night to celebrate our heritage and honor those who have sacrificed to protect and enhance our freedoms. Honorary co-hosts for the event were Former Gov. Roy Barnes and Cobb County Commission Chair Sam Olens.

Cobb County's unique aviation heritage and the men and women who labored to make it so were honored. Speakers included Barnes, actor Dennis Haysbert, actor Michael O'Neill, soldier and author Eric Haney, former Lockheed President Bob Ormsby, former Commissioner of Aviation for the City of Atlanta George Berry, Major Gen. William T. Nesbitt, Marietta native Admiral James O. Ellis and Captain Alan Price, event chairman.

One of the most moving presentations was the recognition by Maj. Gen. Nesbitt of seven Georgia servicemen that have been awarded the prestigious Purple Heart. They were presented original pieces created and donated by Lillie Glassblowers. Following the program, guests were shuttled to the Whitlock Avenue home of Roy and Marie Barnes for a VIP reception.

Some of the attendees included Bob Ash, Micky and Billie Blackwell, Brent and Carla Brown, Ron Carter, Liz Cole, Bill Dunaway, Bill Duelge, Marge and Russ Kellogg, Tim Lee, Dr. Emily and Harry Lembeck, Karen Lockhart, Al Martin, Diane and Lynn Rainey, Earl Reece, Mike and Jan Russell, Dan and Mary Lou Stephens, Glynda Thor, KT Werner, and Pam Younker.

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Residents of Arbor Terrace at West Cobb in Austell, an assisted living community, celebrate Valentine's Day with their sweethearts. The couples represent more than 450 years of wedded bliss!

Sally Litchfield is a longtime Marietta resident. She formerly practiced law in Marietta and now stays home to raise her two children. Send Sally news at sallylit @bell south.net. Call Sally at (770) 425-7122.