SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Thousands across Western Mass took this day of reflection to remember the lives lost protecting our freedoms.

In Agawam, families and veterans gathered at the Massachusetts Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice - their lives.

Attendees of Monday’s ceremony said their intentions were to reflect, pray, and pay tribute to the fallen service members. Elected officials and families filled the grounds with Agawam City Councilor Anthony Russo sharing that it doesn’t take much to show respect as long as you’re taking the time to remember.

“It’s something as simple as going to a cemetery and saying a prayer over a solder’s grave, laying a wreath on Wreaths Across America Day, celebrating them, remembering them, honoring them,” he said.

Russo also said that the ceremony is personal for him. His father is buried at the cemetery after his service-related death in Vietnam.

Monday’s message was clear, Memorial Day isn’t just a date on a calendar, a day off of work, or a barbeque with neighbors, it’s a promise to speak the names, tell the stories, and carry the sacrifice of the fallen long after their flags are folded.

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