PITTSFIELD, Mass. – Volunteers spent their Friday placing flags at veterans' graves in Pittsfield's St. Joseph's Cemetery as a way of saluting and honoring their sacrifice and service.

“We’ve been doing this for years, so we’ve got it pretty down. For us, it’s a way to respect the veterans and honor them, and we take pride in what we do and make sure we find everybody and don’t leave any man behind. We enjoy it,” said Vietnam veteran and flag coordinator Don Hatch.

John Harding has coordinated the flag distribution for about 21 years. This will be his last.

“I think just looking at these flags, especially on a nice sunny day, it’s really impressive, you know? And it makes people happy. This Sunday’s going to be Mother’s Day, and I would let everybody know that the flags are in,” Harding said.

Volunteers from Soldier On and former veterans came out to help, including Hank Frydel. He says he has come up almost every year since 1997 to make sure veterans get their flag. His trip involves driving all the way up from Virginia.

“Every year, I want to be here, and I enjoy being here. And I will try very hard to make it,” said the Marine Corps Vietnam veteran.

The flag distribution takes place every year in May. The city of Pittsfield Veteran Services is always looking for people to help.

“Their dedication and sacrifice really matters and is not forgotten,” Soldier On volunteer Stephanie Ovitt said.