JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- They are the reason we have the freedoms we enjoy today.
Two weeks later, the City of Jacksonville can finally honor our fallen soldiers.
"They are the fabric of our community. So they are very important despite of Beryl," said Mayor Alvin Brown.
More than 1700 names are etched into the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Wall. Three more were added Saturday. "If I have tears, they are tears of joy," said his step-father, Renes Perez.
One of them is 21-year-old Private First Class Gil Morales. He died 75-days before returning home from Afghanistan last year.
"He is in our hearts all of the time. Every memory that we have with him was a joyful memory. He was a great kid," said Perez
Hundreds remembered their legacy and paid tribute to their sacrifice at the delayed service.
"To whom much is given, much is required. And God has blessed us with a peaceful life because of those who serve and sacrifice," said Mayor Brown.
"Our freedom was paid for by the blood of many," said Navy Veteran, Bunky Johnson.
Bunky honors his fallen comrads every year from these steps. "The original ceremony got rained out and this one didn't, so we carried on," he said.
"Honor them, love them. They are what makes this country what it is," said Perez.
And whether it rains or shines, families here say everyone should take the time to do the same.
The Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Wall is the second largest in the country.
