Gold Star families honored during Pittsford wreath laying ceremony

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – A gathering Sunday honored the lives of those who served in the military and died while on active duty. It's part of an annual endeavor in Pittsford: The Gold Star Wreath Laying.

The event was open to the public, with Gold Star families in attendance. Participants included the Gates Keystone Police Pipes and Drums and the Patriot Guard Riders of New York .

In honor of their beloved, Gold Star families were invited to place a photo of their loved ones at a remembrance table.

"To show them that we're here to support them in every way, and it can be a very emotional time because it brings up the loss," said Mary Anne-Zani, chaplain for Blue Star Mothers – Rochester chapter. "But we're celebrating that these brave men and women have come into the branches of the military and right away they really sacrificed their lives."

The event was sponsored by Blue Star Mothers of America . It's a nonprofit group composed of mothers within the Rochester area who now have – or have had children in military service.

And to further honor these families and their loved ones, New York State landmarks have been lit gold – marking 90 years since the day was first commemorated in 1936. The Fairport Lift Bridge was among the landmarks shining a golden light in their memory.