OWENSBORO, KY (WFIE) -
This Memorial Day weekend, many tri-staters are gathering to thank those who serve our country.
On Saturday, hundreds gathered at Owensboro Memorial Gardens for their annual ceremony. This year, a father remembered his son, fallen soldier Brandon Mullins who was killed in Afghanistan less than a year ago.
Brandon Mullins's parents tell 14 News that their son's death made the Owensboro community even more aware of how important it is to honor those who serve our country. They say aside from the grief of losing a child, they're proud of the work those like Brandon have done.
"As I stand here today, I know my voice is going to quiver and shake. It's not because I'm nervous, it's because I'm humbled," said Brandon's father, Tommy Mullins.
For Army veteran Tommy Mullins, serving America runs in the family.
"Brandon's grandfather was in the Army, Tommy was in the Army, Sean (Tommy's oldest son) still serves in the Army," said Brandon's mother, Cathy Mullins.
The Owensboro couple lost their son, Army Specialist Brandon Mullins, who was serving in Afghanistan last August. Now, the couple says they realize even more how important it is to honor not just their son, but all those who serve.
"We're really overwhelmed at the whole other world out there of veterans and families that have lost soldiers," said Cathy.
"I think there's a lot of togetherness in the Owensboro, Daviess County communities," said Linda Boone who attended the ceremony.
On Saturday, hundreds of community members gathered as the community band played, a high school alumni choir sang, and local veteran groups joined together to celebrate those who have died for our country and those who still serve.
"I think it shows a lot of respect for what people have done for us, to risk their lives to give us freedom," said Boone.
The Mullins family says they've learned a lot of life lessons recently. Just last week, they traveled to Alaska to welcome Brandon's unit back from the battlefield and want to share this message to other families in similar situations.
"We want to move on, but yet, we want to honor their lives and make sure what they've fought for is never forgotten," said Tommy.
That Memorial Day service is an annual celebration that many people tell 14 News, they go to support those who serve our country every year.
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Residents in Owensboro honor those who serve our country in a ceremony this Memorial Day weekend.
