GASTONIA, N.C. -- Several ceremonies were held this Memorial Day across the area to remember those who've served our country.

"I served in Vietnam. I have two Purple Hearts. I laid out in a rice field for a while," said veteran James Summey.

With patriotic music playing and flags waving, memories of wars past are still fresh in the minds of veterans.

"Meanwhile, I was bleeding profusely from my mouth and shoulder," said Lawrence Doby, a World War II veteran.

Doby was the guest speaker at the Memorial Day service at Gaston Memorial Park in Gastonia. His words resonated with other veterans.

"It's just an honor to know that they were there when we needed them and that we still have them on the front lines now serving for us so we have the privilege to do what we do today," said Summey.

Patricia Peterson sat right in front of her son's grave, Caroll Sweeten. He died four years ago, not in combat, but she said he did serve our country.

"My son was in the National Guard," said Patricia Peterson. "I can't let him go."

North Carolina Rep. Sue Myrick thanked those who've served our country and continue to do so.

"Today we know that there are a lot of them serving all over the world and we want to thank them for their dedication," she said.

Others want to make sure they are not forgotten.

"I want people to remember that the soldiers are having to pay a price for us to be able to pray and be able to do things in America," said Natasha Peterson.