Gov. Nixon will also speak at Joplin High School graduation

The two speakers whose words meant so much to the city of Joplin at the memorial service one week after the May 22 tornado will return to the same venue.

It was announced earlier today that President Barack Obama will speak at the Monday, May 21, Joplin High School graduation ceremony at the Leggett & Platt Center on the Missouri Southern State University campus.

Gov. Jay Nixon will also address the graduates, according to the following news release:

"Over the past 10 months, the people of Joplin have worked tirelessly to recover from the deadly tornado and rebuild their thriving community.  Their steadfast resolve has touched people around the world.  Professionals from more than 400 law enforcement and public safety agencies, more than 100,000 volunteers, and generous contributors from across the globe have helped made this progress possible.  On May 21, I look forward to joining President Barack Obama in Joplin to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2012 and to somberly mark the eve of the one-year anniversary of the tornado.  All Missourians, and all Americans, will continue to stand with the people of Joplin as they move their community forward."