ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- Former servicemembers and local volunteers made their way to Woodlawn National Cemetery in Elmira this morning, placing flags on the resting places of servicemembers who are no longer with us.

Woodlawn National Cemetery serves as the final resting place for generations of fallen servicemen and women. The opportunity to honor them strikes a chord with many in the region, especially those with personal connections to the military.

"This holiday, this weekend means a lot to my family and I, and just to see the number of community members come out, interact in the community, honor our veterans, that gave the ultimate sacrifice, or that fought for the American values, just means the world to me," stated Donnie Taylor, who served as the flag placement coordinator.

The Elmira Kiwanis Club, as well as entire families and current veterans showed up to volunteer, moving quickly and quietly as they placed flags. 

"The tradition of honoring our fallen servicemen continues, and has continued since Memorial Day started in 1918, 1919 in that area, and it will continue into the future. We have a lot of challenges. One thing we do as a country is we'll always honor those men and women who wear the uniform and get the last full measure of their devotion to our country," remarked U.S. Navy Veteran David Holmes.

Volunteers are also encouraged to help with the removal of flags on the Tuesday after Memorial Day. Currently Woodlawn National Cemetery holds 8,000 grave sites.