A 21-gun salute complemented the ceremony at the Military Garden of Honor at Forest Meadows Cemetary.

People enjoyed a performance from the Gainesville High School drill team and songs performed by the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus.

"I think it gives people a chance to honor the veterans," said Amanda Garrigues, event coordinator. " So many people forget that today isn't just a holiday for people to go to the beach, to go play golf. It's a holiday to remember what makes this country free."

The special guest speaker was retired Navy Captain William Pokorny, who said a strong military is the best guarantee of freedom.