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Veterans And The Fallen Honored In Miami Beach On Memorial Day

MIAMI BEACH (CBSMiami) – In honor and remembrance of our veteran's ultimate sacrifice, a wreath-laying ceremony was held in Miami Beach Monday.

"It makes me feel real good, you know, because when you were over there in Vietnam, it's nobody but you," said Kenneth Boyd, a veteran, adding, "Even though you have back up you are thinking about your family and kids and wife and it means a whole lot to me. To know that people appreciate that."

The American Legion Miami Beach Post 85 and VFW Miami Beach Post 3559 honored veterans Memorial Day morning with a wreath-laying ceremony and a 21-gun salute in front of the Miami Beach Police Headquarters.

John Hamilton is a third generation marine and Vietnam veteran. He said he remembers his days in the service like it was yesterday, but today his sole focus is not on battles, but on his fallen friends.

"Andy died but is forever young," Hamilton said of his close friend that died in Vietnam who died at 19.

Jeff Costa, who attended the ceremony, was there to honor all veterans—with one family member in mind.

"My grandfather fought in WWII and he didn't die in battle, but it doesn't matter, I just think people who fought for a cause to support our country through the years and I just wanted to come out and how I appreciate it, and teach my daughter it's something we should do," said Costa.

Memorial Day ceremonies have been held in the City of Miami Beach for over 50 years.

READ: Hundreds Gather In Ft. Lauderdale To Honor Veterans On Memorial Day 

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