Hundreds of people flocked to Fort Rosecrans in Point Loma on Monday to remember our nation's fallen service members.
San Diego is home to the country's largest active duty military population and many men, women and children showed up to pay their respects this Memorial Day.
"It's our flag, it's our country, it's our land," said speaker Sgt. Maj. Bill Paxton. "Freedom isn't free."
The Memorial Day holiday started more than 100 years ago. It was originally called Decoration Day to remember those who fought and died during the Civil War. It was later named Memorial Day and became a national holiday to honor the troops who laid down their lives in other wars.
Rear Admiral Dixon Smith, Commander Navy Southwest, was the keynote speaker at the Fort Rosecrans event. He lauded veterans of past and current wars.
"We have heard that our World War II veterans were the greatest generation," he said. "I also believe that the men and women who voluntarily chose to serve our nation now are another greatest generation."
There are more than 100,000 active duty military service men and women in San Diego County. Smith urged attendees to think of them every day and do something to help wounded warriors and their families.
