Nearly 50 veterans, families and children gathered at historic Flint Hill Cemetery in Oakton on Memorial Day to pay tribute to American heroes, veterans and active duty military. American Legion Post 180 of Vienna conducts the ceremony every year.

Mayor M. Jane Seeman presented a proclamation to Miss Poppy, Mackenzie Duffy, representing Vienna’s Post 180 Junior Auxiliary of the American Legion.

"I, M. Jane Seeman, Mayor, and on behalf of the Vienna Town Council, do hereby proclaim May 25, 2009, Poppy Day. I ask all citizens to pay tribute to all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice."

Mackenzie’s father returned from Iraq in March, and the 16-year-old Madison High School student has been active in heading projects in support of American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Vienna Community Band, braving the heat and humidity, played the National Anthem and other patriotic pieces. Honored guests included State Sen. Chap Petersen (D-34) and Vienna historian Mayo Stuntz.

Capt. Gregory Caiazzo, assistant for public affairs, Office of the Chief of Navy Chaplains, addressed those gathered in the midst of headstones.

"Others, like you and I, are gathering across the nation today to pay tribute and homage to those who died and those who face death defending freedom and preserving peace," said Caiazzo.

"It’s important for us to continue to honor veterans and to help young people appreciate their heritage," said Navy veteran Vito Florimonte of Vienna.

Heather Colbert, 8, and her sister, Hannah, 12, know something about Memorial Day and veterans. "It’s kind of to honor veterans who fought for our country," said Heather, whose grandparents served in the military. Hannah agreed. "The people who served should be honored because they fought for us," she said.

Post 180 Chaplain Bob Hatter led the opening prayer, and the post’s commander, Phil Dunn, gave opening remarks and introduced guests. Janet Renner, auxiliary president, and Bob Renner, vice commander, laid the red, white and blue wreath.

A gun salute, fired by young Iraq veterans, and "Taps," played by a member of the Vienna Community band, closed the Memorial Day ceremony.

Post 180 also places flags along Maple Avenue in honor of America’s holidays.

"Freedom thrives because of the men and women we honor today," said Caiazzo.