MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Memorial Day is often honored as the unofficial kickoff to summer. On the Lakefront, there's a clear and powerful reminder of what the holiday is all about. 27,316 flags are on display at the 7th annual Field of Flags outside of the War Memorial Center. Each one represents the life of a Wisconsin soldier killed in the line of duty. 

Memorial Day also marks the opening of the War Memorial Beer Garden. Enjoy a brat, a pretzel and a beer on the lakefront and know that you're supporting veterans and their families. 

To date, the War Memorial Beer Garden has raised $350,000 for the War Memorial Center.