Home of Heroes honors fallen service members

A missing man formation flew above the Pueblo Riverwalk as an estimated 500 people surrounded the Veteran’s Bridge to honor fallen servicemen and women.

“It’s one of those times where it allows you to reflect a little bit on some of the experiences that you’ve been through and to remember the ones that you’ve lost,” said Col. Timothy Daughtery of the Fourth Infantry Division, who served as the keynote speaker of the event.

Retired General Paul Maye made special mention during his remarks to those veterans who died while serving in Vietnam. “Especially those young soldiers dodging bullets and dying while the war was debated at home,” he said.

Aspiring servicemen and women also left their mark on the Memorial Day tribute, decorating the Veteran’s Bridge with wreaths.

“It’s a huge honor to actually be here to honor our veterans on Memorial Day and honor all of the lost heroes,” said Juanita Gallegos, of the Young Marines.

Roselawn and Pioneer Cemeteries both held Memorial Day services to honor the fallen heroes.

“They paid the ultimate sacrifice for us to stand here and enjoy freedom,” U.S. Navy veteran Mike Lopez said.

“It means so much to me as a dedication, to recognize that they have not been forgotten, I don’t think they will ever be forgotten,” U.S. Army veteran John Vigil said.