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Fort Smith National Cemetery Hosts Memorial Day Ceremony

FORT SMITH (KFSM)-Today (May 29), many joined together at the Fort Smith National Cemetery to honor those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. More than...

FORT SMITH (KFSM)-Today (May 29), many joined together at the Fort Smith National Cemetery to honor those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.

More than 20 memorial wreaths were placed by different organizations to honor America's fallen heroes and Mayor Sandy Sanders said he wants people to remember the true meaning of Memorial Day.

"We would not have that day off, Monday, had these people not given their lives so that we have the opportunity to live in the country where we do live," Mayor Sanders said.

Music from the River Valley Community Band along with the Fort Smith Firefighters Pipe and Drum Corps filled the cemetery.

Organizers planned the event the day before Memorial Day to give families the chance to focus on their loved ones on Monday.

Charlotte Cagle said she is remembering her father, who served in the Korean War and when visiting the cemetery, her grandson brings his Papa a special gift each time.

"He will come and put money on the grave, so Papa can come buy him a Diet Dr. Pepper, and leave him a Diet Dr. Pepper on his grave when they do come," Cagle said.

Memorial Day Weekend is to honor our fallen soldiers, but Carder Ferguson said we should always remember their sacrifice.

"Every day of the year, just remember when you see the flag flying that what they did to sacrifice to help bring you here," Ferguson said. "Support your veterans group, because they're out here to support you."

The great ending to this Memorial Weekend will be tomorrow at the Old Fort Days Parade and Mayor Sanders said everyone should come out to learn another part of history.

The Avenue of Flags Ceremonial Group will remove the small flags from the cemetery this coming Tuesday morning. The group is looking for volunteers and used flags to use for other holidays. If you would like to volunteer or would like more information on the group, you can visit the cemetery's website.

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