Thousands lined the streets of Fairfield for the town?s annual Memorial Day parade, but the parade had an even more special meaning for one family.

The Lawsons have attended the parade for years to thank veterans, but this year they thanked one of their own. United States Army Specialist Justin Lawson just returned home from war-torn Iraq and marched in the parade for the first time.

?It felt really good, seeing a lot of people, everyone clapping and cheering for me,? Lawson said. ?It was a really good feeling.?

Lawson?s brother, Ian, recently left for United States Marine boot camp in South Carolina. With two sons in the military, Karen Lawson is extra concerned.

?I have a great support system with my friends and family, so I?m really happy,? Karen said. ?I?m really proud of them.?

The Lawsons? mother said she hopes to one day see both her sons march in the Memorial Day parade together.