Wilmington National Cemetery honors the fallen on Memorial Day

DOWNTOWN WILMINGTON (WWAY) — In honor of Memorial Day, the Wilmington National Cemetery honored those who fiercely fought for our country.

Every year on this day, the New Hanover County Veterans Council pays its respect to the fallen.

This year’s ceremony was a bit different due to the coronavirus, but the community still honored more than 600 veterans. Every veteran’s name was announced.

Military Gold Star Mother Leslie Butler said she honors her son who died eight years ago, fighting for our country in Afghanistan.

“It’s not just a long weekend for the summer, but I understand that people think it’s a long day for the summer on the weekend, but if you know anyone, then you know what Memorial Day means to the fallen,” Butler said.

Part of the ceremony was geared toward those currently in the military, and to all of us, the main take away was to continue to carry the torch.