Greenwich residents implemented changes this year for their Memorial Day ceremony as our country continues to battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

Local leaders pushed restricted gatherings and facial coverings to stop the spread of COVID-19.

“I don’t think that most of us have ever realized we would ever go through such a horrific event in our lives," said Vietnam War veteran Louis Pittocco.

But masks and gloves did not stop residents from honoring those who served our country.

“We don’t ask for it. Veterans don’t ask for anything, but doing something like this it makes, it us feel good," said veteran Peter LeBeau.

Many ceremonies across the country were canceled this year, but at Cos Cob War Memorial, our soldiers were honored.

“I think the fact we are recognizing veterans are so important to this country, that the mere fact that the gatherings are smaller, doesn't take away the importance of them," Pittocco added.

Gov. Ned Lamont was also present to pay his respects to fallen military members.

“My uncle died in World War II. I just try to remind people we all have our own battles. This is our battle right now, the COVID battle, and if we stick together, we are going to win this war as well," Lamont reiterated.