ORLANDO, Fla. — Communities across the country are taking time to remember our fallen soldiers who died defending our freedoms. Memorial Day ceremonies here in Central Florida are recalling their sacrifices and their heroism.
People who took part in Monday’s ceremonies said it’s important to say the names of fallen soldiers to keep their memories alive and for all of us to live the ideals they represented.
The U.S. Department of War says more than one million Americans have died in major wars since 1775. On Monday, locals around Central Florida remember their courage and patriotism.
The somber rhythm of taps. It’s America’s solemn song to remember our greatest heroes. A 21-gun salute and a choir also honored those laid to rest.
Residents gathered Monday to honor fallen heroes. (Spectrum News/Keith Landry)
People gathered at Woodlawn Memorial Park to honor Central Florida’s fallen heroes. Men and women who served to defend our freedoms and sacrificed everything.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Paul Joseph Webber, Jr. is one of the heroes being honored. His stepfather, Brian Freid, says P.J. gave his life willingly for a country he loved. Freid reminds us to take a moment on this day or remembrance.
“To think about the sacrifice and the service of their family members and the people who gave their lives for this country, and to pick up that torch and live for the ideals that they fought for,” Freid said.
Lt. Alexzander Teschner was badly wounded during a terrorist bombing at Abbey Gate at Afghanistan’s international airport in 2021. Thirteen American soldiers were killed. Teschner was awarded a Purple Heart medal and now serves as a chaplain to help other soldiers heal and to keep good memories alive.
“Say their names and keep remembering the fallen that made the ultimate sacrifice,” Teschner said.
Spectrum News/Keith Landry
Hundreds gathered Monday at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell to honor Florida’s service members laid to rest there and to recall their courage and dedication to our country.
Michele and Don Carey laid a wreath at the ceremony as they remembered their son, Marine Cpl. Barton Russell Humlhanz, who was killed during his second deployment to Iraq in August 2004.
Mrs. Carey says, “Ceremonies like this and the support from the community are really what keep us going and help us get through the difficult times.”
The Careys started a nonprofit group called Gold Star Fathers of Florida back in 2012 to help grieving families who lost sons and daughters serving our nation.