(BIVN) – The annual Memorial Day Observance at the East Hawaii Veterans Cemetery in Hilo was held under sunny skies on Monday.

The program is hosted by VFW Post 3830 and Auxiliary, and pays tribute to the fallen military men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The event featured speeches, floral tributes from Veterans Service Organizations, interfaith reflections, and music by the Hawaii County Band.

Vietnam Veteran Michael Doolittle presented the keynote address. This year marked the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.

VFW Post Commander Debra Lewis and Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim also spoke at the event. The master of ceremonies was LTC Douglass Adams.