SOUTHEAST WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- Events honoring the fallen took place all across Wisconsin this Memorial Day. 

In Milwaukee, at Wood National Cemetery, the annual Memorial Day ceremony at the Milwaukee VA Campus featured a balloon release, wreath laying, playing of taps and a performance of God Bless America. 

Memorial Day ceremony at Wood National Cemetery CBS 58

Several local leaders were in attendance, including Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, who spoke on the city's connection to the military community. 

"We're a city that's been shaped by service, those who step forward, those who protect, those who lead, those that make sacrifice. Today we honor not only those we lost, but also the families, the families that carry that legacy forward with strength and really true, true grace," Mayor Johnson said.

This year's ceremony theme was "fulfilling Lincoln's promise," a nod to the VA's long-lasting motto:

"To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow, and his orphan." 

PHOTO GALLERY

State Senator Julian Bradley CBS 58

In New Berlin, the city joined other community groups in a Memorial Day ceremony of their own. 

The ceremony, held at Highland Memorial Park Cemetery, included a ritual service performance from VFW Post 5716 and remarks from leaders in the New Berlin community. 

"It's crucial that we recognize the incredible cost and incredible price paid by some extraordinary men and women over many generations to ensure that we have this freedom, that we have this everyday life that we've been blessed to live." State Senator Julian Bradley said. 

Ner Berlin's Memorial Day ceremony included several performances including "God Bless America," sung by Miss Wisconsin Willow Newell.

Memorial Day ceremony in New Berlin CBS 58

PHOTO GALLERY