Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division paid honor this Memorial Day weekend to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation. A special wreath-laying ceremony was held at Memorial Park on post.

Brigadier General Brett Funck and Command Sergeant Major Mario Terenas placed the wreath at the foot of the Military Mountaineers Monument.

The COVID-19 pandemic severely limited the number of people who could attend the ceremony, but it was important for those involved to find a way to carry on the tradition, in a more private setting.

"All great nations respect and honor the warriors who defend their values and our way of life. Memorial Day is an opportunity to pause and recognize service members who have sacrificed their lives in the defense of our nation, its values and our freedoms," Brig. Gen. Funck said.

On this Memorial Day weekend, Fort Drum has approximately 3,500 soldiers deployed.