MILWAUKEE — On a cool and windy Monday morning, hundreds came together at Wood National Cemetery in Milwaukee to honor those who have served their country and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. 

What You Need To Know

  • People came together for Memorial Day at Wood National Cemetery

  • Elected officials, VA leaders spoke at the event 

  • Monday's event included wreath laying ceremonies

As part of an annual ceremony, military bands played and speakers discussed the importance of honoring veterans. 

Quincy McCall is director of the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, a large military cemetery in Elwood, Illinois, south of Chicago. McCall spoke at Monday’s event in Milwaukee. 

“Today, more than 40,000 rest here (at Wood National Cemetery) in this beautiful shrine. They rest in honor, dignity and peace,” McCall told the crowd. 

People of all ages came together at the ceremony. It included some of the youngest Wisconsinites.

Sammie Gates brought her three young children. Gates said at a time when many kids may no longer have a direct connection to the military, she wants to make sure her kids understand the real purpose for Memorial Day. 

“It is important to bring it to the forefront. We talk a lot about picnics and barbeque over these weekends and it is really easy to lose sight of what we are here to honor,” said Gates. 

A large number of elected officials attended and spoke at the ceremony, including Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, Congresswoman Gwen Moore, Congressman Tom Tiffany and Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson. 

Sen. Tammy Baldwin was among those who spoke. 

“Today and every day we hold families who have lost a loved one in our hearts. The parents, spouses, children, siblings and friends who have carried the weight of sacrifice need to know they do not walk forward alone,” Baldwin told the crowd. 

Monday’s event featured a wreath laying ceremony and a special tribute to Wisconsin’s service members who have been prisoners of war or missing in action. 

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