LIMESTONE COUNTY, AL (WAFF) -
More than 500 people packed into the Limestone County event center to pay tribute to local fallen soldiers.
The American Legion hosted the event, and veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were present for the celebration.
Hundreds of veterans, their families and friends were present in Athens for the event.
Veterans laid wreaths to commemorate all the soldiers lost for the stars and stripes.
Lieutenant General Richard Formica, the commanding general of the US Army Space and Missile Defense command spoke to the crowd.
He reiterated what Memorial Day is set aside for and why it's important not only to the veterans present but to anyone that has ever worn a uniform.
"As you know and recognize by being here today is not just a day off or the first weekend of the summer," said Formica.
The US Army also took time during the event to surprise an Alabama World War II veteran for his service.
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Hundreds gathered in Athens to honor veterans.
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