SHERMAN, Texas (KTEN) -- The American Legion Simmons Hardwick Post 29 hosted its annual Memorial Day service Monday at West Hill Cemetery in Sherman.

Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It honors the ones who never made it out of their uniform, dying for our country. 

"Being here today is an honor for me to pay respect to those that gave their life in support of this country," said Mel Carruth, who was there honoring the veterans.

Friends, family, and loved ones came together on a rainy morning to honor and mourn those who have died while serving in the military.

"It means everything to be able to take time out of our lives and to say 'thank you,' and to remember those who have passed on and who have already served," said American Legion Chaplain Billy Teague. "We wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for them."

An emotional day for a 92-year-old U.S. Marines veteran who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam wars. 

"I was setting over here tearing up all the time," said U.S. Marines veteran, Gunnery Sgt. James Haun. "I choked up, and it would be hard to keep me from crying...thinking about the guys that didn't make it back."

A day that was declared a national holiday 50  years ago continues to be upheld through the veterans today. 

"Just because the veteran is no longer with us, they made that sacrifice, doesn't mean we forget them," Teague said. "To us we uplift the families, we continue to keep them in prayer, and we just want them to know they are not alone" 

Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 973, David Pedigo, closed the service out by playing 'Taps.' It's a song that is near and dear to several veterans hearts.

"I tear up and want to cry, and I shake trying to keep from crying, but Taps means an awful lot and it does mean a lot to me about all the guys that didn't make it back. But I appreciate it anyway," Gunnery Sgt. Haun said.