A Norwalk family that lost a loved one in the war in Iraq drove home the real meaning of Memorial Day Monday.

To the Perez family, the holiday weekend is about more than just beaches and barbeques. Wilfredo Perez Jr. was killed in Iraq in July of 2003 at the age of 24. His father said Wilfredo lost his life while guarding a children?s hospital.

The Perez family tries to make sure Wilfredo?s sacrifices and the sacrifices of others are remembered. They created a memorial honoring all 37 men and women from Connecticut killed in Iraq and Afghanistan.

?I wanted to put a face with their names,? Wilfredo?s father said.

Meanwhile, the Norwalk Memorial Day parade was held Monday to honor those who?ve made the ultimate sacrifice.