Patriotism, flags and shrimp - Memorial Day 2018

(FOX 11) - Back here in Southern California observances were held throughout the region to honor the fallen heroes.

Nicki Cordero is 32 and older than her grandpa was when he died in combat in 1965 in Vietnam. He was 29.

Says Cordero, "His B-52 went down on the Ho Chi Minh Trail. And, he is buried in Arlington along with the pilot of that aircraft."

Throughout the day some 3000 people came to the big battleship for many reasons. Mainly, it was a chance to be where many served our country since the 1940's on this day to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

There was a remembrance on board the Iowa that was not dissimilar from others across the Southland.

In Riverside, at the National Cemetery, we caught up with a family who brought their kids to learn the lessons of the past and appreciate those who died so we may live in freedom.

In Westwood, at the Los Angeles National Cemetery flags and flowers were put in place as speakers and many officials came to pay their respects.

At Green Hills Memorial Park in Rancho Palos Verdes some 8000 US flags were placed and, overhead, an aerial salute. The missing man formation..

As she thinks of her grandpa Nicki Cordero tells FOX 11, "I'm thinking I'm very lucky…I'm very lucky to live in a country where we can come out and honor in this fashion. That we an live the lifestyle that we want. That we can be who we choose to be."

LA City Councilman Joe Buscaino also told FOX 11, "Let's remember those who have fallen and those who gave their lives for our country and this battleship is a constant living reminder of Memorial Day."

And, what would Memorial Day be without shrimp? What??? Yes.. the first annual national shrimp eating festival.

One of the contestants is Joey Chestnut. The San Jose resident has won the Coney Island Hot Dog Eating Contest TEN TIMES. And, guess what? Of the 15 who chewed and swallowed shrimp the size of cell phones the winner of $2000 and a wrestling style championship belt was none other than Joey Chessnut! He ate 77 shrimp in 8 minutes!