The fallen remembered in Merced

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- People gathered in the North Valley to honor the lives of military members who died in the line of duty. Organizers say the event was held in remembrance of those who died serving in Iraq and Afghanistan since the attacks on 9/11.

"It's a traveling tribute to the soldiers and warriors and the marines who have been killed, "said Bill Baker. He added, "Unfortunately many of the names on that wall are local soldiers, local citizens of ours from the community."

Terri Pickard attended the ceremony. On December 19th, 2006, a sniper shot her son, 20 year-old Joshua Pickard while he served in Iraq. Pickard said, "As a mom it's just really hard but good to see people come out and support our families and all the other families who have lost their child and it's nice to know our community does not forget."

During Saturday's ceremony crowds gathered for a 21 Gun Salute and a flyover to remember the sacrifices of all those who died in service. American Legion Riders sponsored the ceremony. They say they plan on taking this traveling tribute throughout the San Joaquin Valley.

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merced, merced county, afghanistan war, iraq war, 9/11, local, mariana jacob

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