GWINN -- A crowd of dozens honored fallen heroes and military veterans at a memorial service in Gwinn Monday morning.

It's a long-standing tradition that is the conclusion to the annual parade from Peter Nordeen Park.

Many veterans told TV6 they make it out to this ceremony every year.  Ron Libey has led the crowds in prayer at these services for at least 15 years.  He served 23 years in the Air force and says it's important to remember what the holiday is about.

"Often we think of Memorial Day as just the beginning of a summer," says Libey.  "But it's a remembrance for those who have sacrificed that we might have freedom to live and enjoy the life we have in America."

The ceremony is put together through a joint effort of several local veteran and military agencies.