Pueblo Riverwalk Memorial Day celebration

Hundreds of people gathered in the Home of Heroes to honor those who served our country and lost their lives.

It was standing room only for the ceremony that remembered the heroes who have fought and died for our country.

Many military guest speakers spoke to a crowd of their peers, people who are serving or who have served.

Although Memorial Day is a chance to remember those who have passed away, it is also a chance for a lot of the veterans in the crowd to come together and share stories.

Many of the active military speakers thanked the veterans in the crowd. There was also a 21-gun salute and a flyover.

Veterans we spoke with said it is important to remember their fallen friends.

“You know, I don’t really look for recognition or nothing, but it means a lot because I honor the rest of the veterans and soldiers who have been through this stuff with me,” said Robert Martinez, a Vietnam veteran.

Vietnam veterans were also highlighted at Monday’s ceremony, after never having been properly welcomed home.

Veteran Luis Ibarra said this recognition isn’t just for him but for those whom he fought beside and who didn’t make it home.

“It feels great to celebrate and, for all my brothers who are here today, we’re still hurting. A lot of our brothers are hurting,” Ibarra said.

Many of the speakers say it’s an honor to see so many people come out for ceremonies like the one held Monday.