Hundreds gathered at the Fountain Park Veterans Memorial early Monday to honor those who have fallen over the years in defense of our country.

The annual Memorial Day ceremony was a joint effort between Legion Post 58, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7507 and AMVETS Post 7, all of Fountain Hills.

Congressman David Schweikert, a Republican from Fountain Hills, was the keynote speaker. He said he never dreamed upon taking office that the most difficult task would be consoling widows who have lost their young military husbands during service. 

"Use this day for something else besides sales and barbecues," Schweikert added. "Arizona has lost 147 lives in Afghanistan and Iraq. We need to honor them and all who have given their lives for our freedom."

Also giving short speeches were Boe James, local VFW commander, and Bob Schmitz, commander of Legion Post 58.

"Today we gather to honor those who have fallen to preserve our freedom," Schmitz told the crowd, many of whom sported Red Friday Shirts or other patriotic garb.

For photos of the morning’s event, visit the "Memorial Day 2013" link under Related Galleries to the left.