WORCESTER, Mass. - Each Memorial Day, communities host ceremonies at cemeteries and war memorials honoring the people who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Spectrum News 1 spoke with veterans' leaders in Worcester about the importance of the day.

“The importance in my eyes," Joe Robinson said, "is to pay homage and honor all those who served and gave their all.”

Dozens gathered at Hope Cemetery as Robinson led the annual Memorial Day service. This year marks Robinson’s first Memorial Day as Worcester’s Director of Veterans Services.

“I'm a retired United States Marine, once a marine, always a marine, oorah," Robinson said. "I served from 1990 to 1999, was retired. So, I am a disabled veteran and just full circle for any veteran, regardless of branch of service, we all serve one common commonality which is serving the flag and protecting the United States of America.”

And over at the Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans Memorial, president Phil Madaio said the support was felt for the 1,546 men and one woman from Massachusetts who died during the war.

“We had a decent crowd today and the weather wasn't that great. I appreciate it. You know, because we honor the people, the fallen who gave their lives for their country," Madaio said. "They really did. You know, as you can see, all these names here. It's a good showing.”

Madaio said, beyond Memorial Day, the state's four-acre memorial welcomes schools and groups to come and learn the stories of those who served in Vietnam.

“It's part of our history. It's 20 years of history, you know, it's like the Korean War," Madaio said. "The Korean’s the ‘forgotten war,' Vietnam is right after that, too. It's unfortunate. But, you know, you look at what these people gave for their country and it's awful, you know?”

And while those who died serving in the United States Armed Forces are honored and mourned on Memorial Day, Robinson said they're always remembered and on the minds of their brothers and sisters in arms.

“My message to everyone that came out is just thank you for showing up for our veterans when we have showed up for the entire nation," Robinson said. "To the gold star parents and families, I just want to say thank you for just sharing the life of your loved one with the rest of us. And we certainly want to make them aware of that. Our prayers are with them. In addition to that, that when they're in those times when they're alone, that certainly there’s someone like us is always thinking. We’re considered our brother and sisters in arms between all branches of service.”