PORTSMOUTH — U.S. Navy Lt. Chris Hetherington told the small crowd gathered at Legion Park Monday morning that it was important to remember why so many war veterans sacrificed their lives: “A better life for their family, their friends, and a better future for this country.”

“We come to remember brothers, sisters, friends, fathers, mothers, sons and daughters that decided to give selflessly the ultimate sacrifice for their country,” said Lt. Hetherington, the guest speaker for the event. He urged everyone to remember veterans’ sacrifice, and “live for that freedom that they gave us.”

Lt. Hetherington is an active-duty sailor stationed in Newport and one of the newest members of American Legion Post 18, which organized the brief Memorial Day ceremony. The triangular-shaped park, sandwiched between Middle and East Main roads just north of Town Hall, features monuments, plaques and plantings in honor of veterans.

GinaMarie Doherty, post adjutant of American Legion Post 18, placed a memorial wreath at the park’s main monument while a recording of “Taps” was played.

“I’m grateful that we all have the freedom to choose to be here this morning,” said Francis “Cisco” Gutierrez, Post 18’s commander, referring to the easing of COVID restrictions. 

“Our war fighters have always been part of what makes America great,” Mr. Gutierrez said. “The United States are indeed united in gratitude to those who died to protect our liberty. Today is a day to celebrate the lives of every veteran who was ever killed in action.”

Dan Duggan, Post 18 chaplain, delivered the invocation and the benediction. Of veterans “who traveled to strange new lands … to protect all Americans so we can live in safety and freedom,” he said, “we are eternally thankful for their sacrifice.”