The City Island Memorial Day parade festivities kicked off at 10:30 a.m. this morning with two wreath-laying ceremonies.

The ceremonies took place at Bicentennial Veterans Memorial Park and Throgs Neck Memorial Park.

Retired service members say it's a great way to honor those who have died in the line of duty.

"Anytime you get a chance to remember those who fought in the wars and honor their memories, it is a proud moment," said Lt. Col. Ron Watson of the U.S. Marine Corps. "It ensures the line in the present and those in the past remains unbroken."

The wreath laying was a precursor to the parade which begins at 1:45 p.m.