Dozens of Vietnam veterans and their families gathered at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery on Wednesday, where they were honored for their service and sacrifice five decades ago.

  • Vietnam vets honored at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery
  • Wednesday was National Vietnam War Veterans Day
  • RELATED: US Vietnam War Commemoration

The day marked National Vietnam War Veterans Day.

Each veteran at the Mims cemetery received a lapel pin, and a wreath was placed in front of a large American flag.

Those who served in the Vietnam War, such as Purple Heart recipient Leonard Ross of Satellite Beach, said they are proud of their service to their country.

"I was so young at the time, I really didn't realize the dangers of it," Ross said. "And now I do, and what a monumental thing it was. I'm proud to say I served in Vietnam."

Since ceremonies began at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery in January 2016, 1,900 veterans have been buried on the property. About 600 are Vietnam veterans.