TYLER, Texas — Memorial Day is an important holiday as it is a time to be thankful for those in the armed forces who died and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
"In our community, we have a lot of people who have served in our armed forces, this is a time to remember and honor those who have fallen," Tyler State Park Operations Trainee Zane Hudson said.
Each year, Tyler State Park expects a big turnout for Memorial Day weekend with many families coming from out of town, making this their recreation destination.
"Spending time with family any chance we get. We work so much and getting to spend time together really means a lot," Dallas resident Raymond Fortoul said.
While many are reflecting on the holiday's meaning, others say Memorial Day signals the start of summer.
There's tradition to these family gatherings on Memorial Day and many enjoyed their time swimming in the lake, grilling on the grill and having a great time to make this day a positive celebration of those who have fallen.
"It's a great time to see that future generation. All that work that we've worked for that our armed forces have worked for. To see them enjoy the outdoors, life is better outside," Hudson said.