Fallen soldiers honored across the region

Across the area this holiday weekend, people are remembering and honoring those who died while serving in the country's armed forces.

United Veterans of Bridesburg marched holding their flags with pride following mass at St. John Cantius Church.

Father Joe Zingaro dedicated Sunday's mass to those who died while serving our country as well as to those who are still living.

Retired men and women and some still serving, along with Boy Scouts held flags at the front of the church during the entire mass.

At the end, Father Zingaro blessed the flags.

It was a touching moment for 91-year-old Marge Chmielewski.

During WWII, she worked in a factory where she assembled ammo and taught the men how to detonate rockets and missiles.

"It's beautiful. It's a shame they can't be there with all of us but I hope they didn't forget those who are buried overseas - our boys," said Chmielewski.

Over in Falls Township, families lined the sidewalks.

People celebrated our armed services during a parade showcasing the tight knight community's support.

At Laurel Hill Cemetery, re-enactors took us back in time.

Laurel Hill is the first place to honor Memorial Day. Back then they called it Decoration Day.

General George Meade was the commander of the Union army.

On the Sunday, the traditional Decoration Day service of the Grand Army Meade Post No. 1 marched towards General Meade's grave.

However first they stopped at the grave of a once unknown soldier.

After research and through private donations, they gave Private Joseph White, who died in 1861, a proper resting place.

It's a reminder of how long ago people fought for our freedom.

"There are other places where stuff took place but right here in Philadelphia, at this historical cemetery, it's beautiful to know," said Michael Malley