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MARQUETTE -- Across the nation, Americans are paying tribute to our country's fallen servicemen and women.

In Marquette, a Memorial Day ceremony was held--a tradition hosted by the American Legion Post 44 for nearly half a century.

Each veteran in attendance has a story, and some were willing to share.

"I wanted to sleep in nice clean sheets and have a good meal everyday, instead of eating in the fox hole," said WWII veteran Jack Ribings, "so I thought I would enlist in the Navy."

But far too many that served our country never had the chance to share.  Today, we listen.

"When you see the flag flying, knowing that you have dedicated your life to our country, how does it make you feel?"  WWII veteran Stanley Butryn replied, "I feel proud."

Inside of Park Cemetery, it's an emotion that runs high.

"It makes me feel good that I have served my country to protect everybody," commented Vietnam veteran Wesley Lawrence, "and it's sad because of the ultimate sacrifices."

Veterans say they'll never forget the true meaning of the holiday.

"Sum it up in one word:  freedom," Lawrence said.

It's important, too, that young people acknowledge our debt to veterans.

"I think people are still aware," Ribings said.  "I don't think it's been forgotten."

Although Memorial Day holds a lot of different meanings for different people; It's for certain a time to reflect and honor those who have served our country, because for some, their sacrifice was a permanent one.