NYC -- Memorial Day ceremonies kicked off Rockland County's long weekend.
Clarkstown commemorates Memorial Day with patriotic anthems and a seven-gun salute.
"We're here this morning to honor heroes, to remember their achievements, courage and dedication, Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann said.
Wreaths are strewn for all significant war dead during the past 80 years. included the 20-year Iraq conflict.
Damien Shea, a Marine from Rockland County, spent 15 months abroad during that battle.
But it is our obligation to teach the youth that nothing comes without expenses, and sacrifices are worthless without remembrance," said Shea.
Damien Shea, one of five brothers, fought abroad. Their father is proud.
"I'm grateful they survived. "I feel so sorry for those whose lost boys but I consider myself and my family lucky," Denis Shea said.