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Central Texas honors fallen soldiers on Memorial Day

Posted at 7:27 PM, May 25, 2015
and last updated 2015-05-25 20:27:21-04

Central Texans braved less than perfect weather to honor the fallen on this Memorial Day.

At Waco Memorial Park, local dignitaries and families of members of the military gathered in solemn remembrance. Monday's ceremony included 'The Riderless Horse', long a symbol of the brave who've given the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

This year, the Navy was the branch of the military that was honored.

And in Killeen, Fort Hood Deputy Commanding General Kendall Cox was featured speaker for Memorial Day observances, which were held at Killeen's Civic Center.

It is normally held at the Central Texas Veterans Cemetery, but was moved due to the rainy forecast. Family members and community leaders read off the names of Central Texans who sacrificed their lives in the most recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

At both ceremonies, wreaths were placed honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The day originated as Decoration Day after The Civil War, a time to decorate the graves of the dead with flowers. Now, it honors all Americans who died while in the military service.