Veterans and family members gathered Monday at the Fred L. Ginter American Legion Post 168 to mark one of the nation’s most solemn occasions.

Lt. Col. Kris Gardner, commander of the 385th Military Police Battalion at Fort Stewart, reflected on the sacrifices made by 3rd Infantry Division soldiers, going back more than 100 years to the division’s stand along the Marne River in France.

“Memorial Day is a day of national recognition to honor the military men and women who gave their lives in defense of our nation and its values,” Lt. Col. Gardner said.

Memorial Day started as Decoration Day, as family members decorated gravesites of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags. It is a tradition that continues today, Gardner pointed out, with the 3rd Infantry Regiment, the Old Guard, planting American flags at graves throughout Arlington National Cemetery.

Gen. John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, said on proclaiming the first Decoration Day in 1868, that the mission was to not only remember those who died in defense of our country but also to renew the pledges to aid and assist those left behind.

“Our nation is indebted to our fallen soldiers, and on Memorial Day we take time to honor their memory and sacrifice,” Gardner said. “We must ensure that the price paid was not done so without the recognition of the cost.”

The 3rd ID not only remembers those lost in its first action in France along the Marne but those 469 soldiers honored with crepe myrtles along Warriors Walk, for those lost during Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.

“The Marne Division gathers to honor the dogfaced soldiers who came before us,” Gardner said. “This Memorial Day, I hope you remember the common bond we have soldiers who have come before us, who selflessly served and paid the ultimate Guard, planting American flags at graves throughout Arlington National Cemetery.

Gen. John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, said on proclaiming the first Decoration Day in 1868, that the mission was to not only remember those who died in defense of our country but also to renew the pledges to aid and assist those left behind.

“Our nation is indebted to our fallen soldiers, and on Memorial Day we take time to honor their memory and sacrifice,” Gardner said. “We must ensure that the price paid was not done so without the recognition of the cost.”

The 3rd ID not only remembers those lost in its first action in France along the Marne but those 469 soldiers honored with crepe myrtles along Warriors Walk, for those lost during Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom.

“The Marne Division gathers to honor the dogfaced soldiers who came before us,” Gardner said. “This Memorial Day, I hope you remember the common bond we have soldiers who have come before us, who selflessly served and paid the ultimate price. We honor them by participating in events such as this. It’s our duty to remember those we have lost. It’s an honor to stand with the families. It is our sacred obligation to remember all they have given.”

Gardner also pointed out the national moment of silence at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day as part of the day’s observances.

Local veterans also reflected on the meaning of the day and its effect.

“Let us renew our pledge of loyalty to our country and its flag,” said Jackie Farr, Post 168 junior vice commander. “Let us to resolve by words and deeds to emphasize our privilege and patriotism. Let us never forget those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”