EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Over the weekend, Fort Bliss National Cemetery hosted several events in honor of Memorial Day.
One meaningful tradition is the placement of American flags at the cemetery.
Volunteers placed 250 American flags at gravestones throughout Fort Bliss National Cemetery.
The tradition is especially meaningful to Nathaniel Jones of the High Desert Council, Scouting America.
“Memorial Day means a lot to me. It is quite touching. I served 27 years in the military during both peacetime and war. I am honored to have served, so I could do no less for my brothers and sisters who served, those who are still with us, but more importantly, to honor those who are interred in cemeteries all over the world,” Jones said.
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Fort Bliss National Cemetery flag placing ceremony
For many volunteers, placing flags on gravestones is a family tradition that honors those who served.
“It’s an important day for me. A lot of my family served in the Army — my grandmother’s brother, my step-grandfather, and his father. Honestly, I’m even thinking about joining myself,” volunteer Samantha Romero said.
Others found joy in honoring the service members who came before them.
“Just being here today, like I said, it’s an honor and a privilege to come out here and be a part of something that’s bigger than myself,” volunteer Everett Lewis said.
On Memorial Day, May 25, Fort Bliss will host a Memorial Day ceremony beginning at 9 a.m.
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