The Town of Clarkstown held its Memorial Day ceremony at the Street Community Center in New City on Friday morning.

Dozens of local residents and veterans attended.

“I’m here to pay my respects,” said Walter Schnabel, of New City who was in the Navy.

Ray Botto, who was a Merchant Marine during World War II says, "those people that weren't able to make it. Those people are the ones we recognize today that gave the ultimate sacrifice."

Botto, of New City, shared this message, "I tell you the truth. I think people could take a moment out and give thanks for the life that they're able to live and the freedoms that we enjoy today."

Botto and other veterans placed a wreath at several different monuments to honor the lives lost.

The ceremony also paid tribute to the life and legacy of the Councilman Mark Woods who died earlier this month from an apparent heart attack at the age of 54.

“He was the consummate public servant with a servants heart,” said Supervisor George Hoehmann.