Actor Samuel L. Jackson, a former Chattanoogan, will be emceeing a Sept. 16 memorial and concert for the five slain service members who were killed two months earlier on July 16.
Platinum-selling musician Brantley Gilbert will be performing and invitations have been extended to other artists who may respond in the days to come.
Mr. Gilbert is a country rock artist from Jefferson, Ga., who has had four songs reach number one for country music. He said that after he heard about the shootings in Chattanooga, he wanted to get involved and do something for the community.
He said, “God blessed me with a platform.”
He also said that with family and friends who have served overseas, he has a respect for the military and the sacrifices service members and their families endure.
The free event will include the service itself, a free concert at Ross's Landing, and fireworks.
There will also be a parade to kick things off at 2 p.m. which will travel from Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, down Aquarium Lane, and into the waterfront area.
Though the exact number is unknown, event organizers are expecting there to be between 85,000 to 100,000 people at the event.
There is no charge for the event, but the area will be gated and donations to the families will be accepted.