Agawam and West Side mark Memorial Day

(WWLP) - The Memorial Day parade in Agawam is an annual tradition that's full of excitement and pride.

"I love getting into the spirit. Just to show the celebration of what the U.S. is and what we stand for," paradegoer Johanne Murphy said.

But for many others, this Memorial Day event has a deep emotional significance.

"Already quite a few young men have come and shook my hand, made me feel good," Army Veteran Francis Viens said.

Events took place all over Western Massachusetts on Monday. Big or small, they all had one very important thing in common. They're about remembering those who have fought and those who have fallen.

The town of West Springfield held a solemn ceremony and unveiled a new monument dedicated to a local soldier killed in Iraq.

The day has taken on a new meaning for the Kulig's since their son, an Army Specialist, was badly wounded in Afghanistan.

"I just remember the day when I got the phone call. It was Memorial Day," Linda Kulig of West Springfield said.

"You're more into it now because of the troops and my son," Edward Kulig said.

On Memorial Day, the nation pays tribute to his and the sacrifices of many others.