Memorial Day is a federal holiday to mourn the nation’s fallen service members. While it also serves as the unofficial start of summer, Connecticut never forgets the real meaning.

People hold their hand over their hearts as they face the flag during Memorial Day Services in Wethersfield, Conn., Saturday, May 24, 2025. (Jessica Hill/Special to the Courant)

Spectators watch the Memorial Day parade in Wethersfield, Conn., Saturday, May 24, 2025. (Jessica Hill/Special to the Courant)
John Ewaski of American Legion Post #23 places a wreath at the base of a flagpole on Main Street during Memorial Day Services in Wethersfield, Conn., Saturday, May 24, 2025. (Jessica Hill/Special to the Courant)

Spectators watch as the Wethersfield High School marching band comes down Main St. during the Memorial Day parade in Wethersfield, Conn., Saturday, May 24, 2025. (Jessica Hill/Special to the Courant)
Spectators watch the Memorial Day parade in Wethersfield, Conn., Saturday, May 24, 2025. (Jessica Hill/Special to the Courant)
Wethersfield Fire Fighter Christopher Hock pauses at the headstone of Deputy Fire Chief Bjorn Wilson after the Memorial Day parade in Wethersfield, Conn., Saturday, May 24, 2025. Members of the Fire Department walked throughout Wethersfield Village Cemetery after the parade to honor their own. (Jessica Hill/Special to the Courant)