Memorial Day commemorated with parades, wreath-laying ceremony at the Intrepid

NEW YORK (WABC) -- On this Memorial Day, the Tri-State area is honoring those who gave their lives defending their country.

Hundreds of veterans and service members were on hand Monday morning during a ceremony at the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum on Manhattan's West Side.

Dave Evans reports on a massive gathering to honor the veterans who gave their lives serving their country

The ceremony included the unfurling of a 50-foot American flag, the laying of ceremonial wreaths, and a three-volley rifle salute.

"We can never forget the sacrifices that they made and the pain that their families endured as they gave their final measure," said Admiral John Richardson, U.S. Navy Chief of Naval Operations. "So many of them so young, so far away from home. So many of them from here in New York City."

In Queens, Governor Andrew Cuomo and Senator Charles Schumer were among the dignitaries attending the annual Little Neck Douglaston Memorial Day parade that is one of the largest in the country, with more than 150 marching bands taking part.

"It's a special day for all of us really, especially in New York," Cuomo said. "Memorial Day is about reminding people that freedom isn't free, and many people paid the highest price for freedom. Many families are still suffering from that."

Cuomo also marched with Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and former president Bill Clinton in an annual parade in New Castle, Westchester County, waving and smiling as she walked.

The candidate didn't speak to reporters at the parade, where a friendly crowd cheered and many waved Clinton campaign signs. The Clintons have marched in the parade before, and resident Kelly Aidekman said she views them "as if they were any other neighbors."

Still, the Clinton signs weren't the only signs of the presidential contest. Resident John Nadler was in the crowd with a sign supporting presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump. Nadler said he wants "to let people know that there's more than once choice."

Some towns in New Jersey canceled their Memorial Day outdoor events because of inclement weather.