BUSHNELL, Fla. — People across Central Florida marked this memorial day by paying respects to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. As happens every year, the Florida National Cemetery held its annual ceremony in Bushnell to honor the fallen. 

Hundreds of people gathered at the Florida National Cemetery to honor and remember those who died while serving the country.

In attendance were current military members, veterans, first responders and their families. The ceremony honored over 201,000 veterans who are laid to rest at the cemetery. The ceremony included a presentation of colors, a rifle salute and keynote speakers, including State Women Veterans Coordinator Vanessa Thomas. 

It was an emotional ceremony as people waved flags in the air and prayed over the fallen.

Among the hundreds of people were four marines who spent the day remembering their friend and fellow Marine Corporal Jack Cody. 

“Coming out here today, it hits a little bit harder,” Corporal Abstriel Alvarez said. 

Earlier this year, Cody was hit and killed by a car near the MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa while out for a run.

“On top of him being complete selfless, he was always putting others above himself,” Sergeant Danilo Mangiapane says. 

“When I think of a marine, his dedication is the pinnacle of where you would want to be when wearing the uniform,” Sergeant Nicholas Cimino said. 

“Every day is Memorial Day when you love someone like Jack,” Sergeant Erica Brehmer said. “He touched so many lives, and is deeply missed and loved by everyone who knew him.” 

As Cody’s friends continue to remember the legacy he left behind, others do the same for their loved ones. 

The cemetery is over 500 acres and continues to be the second busiest national cemetery in the Veteran Affairs system.