ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A decade’s-long tradition at a Rochester cemetery continues this Memorial Day weekend.

Dozens of volunteers spent the day making sure each grave of a service member got a flag next to it. It’s a 21-year-long tradition at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

“It’s really important for those serving now and the families of those that passed to know that their service and sacrifice isn’t going to be forgotten,” said veteran and volunteer Rob Contestabile.

Sacrifice is something Contestabile knows about firsthand. As an Iraq War veteran, he says Memorial Day is always bittersweet for him.

“It’s one of the hardest days and one of my favorites,” Contestabile said. “I’ve lost friends and that’s why this means so much. To be able to be a part of this and make it happen, it’s worth it.”

Over 5,500 flags get placed by the volunteers.

Contestabile hopes the gesture shows others that their loved one is remembered this Memorial Day.

“Everybody that comes through the cemetery enjoys seeing the flag fields like this, it makes them feel pride,” said Contestabile.

Through Memorial Day weekend, flags are available for families to take and place on their loved ones' grave at the cemetery.