Memorial Day is a somber time for Jim Reid, a Gulf War veteran and now director of the Veteran's Transition House in New Bedford.

Reid tells WBSM News, he often thinks of the families of those soldiers who lost their lives in combat. "Soldiers accept what they have to do, but the people who suffer are usually the families. So its good to have a personal reflection time, and its also good to recognize the sacrifice of the families that are left behind."

Reid says he has no problem with people holding cookouts on Memorial Day, but he hopes that along with the food and fun, there will be an understanding about what the holiday is all about.

There are numerous Memorial Day events planned for this weekend in New Bedford.

New Bedford Post One American Legion will stage Memorial Day exercises on Sunday at the veterans plot at Pine Grove Cemetery starting at 10:30. Another ceremony will be held at 12 noon outside City Hall at the Vietnam Veterans Honor Role.

New Bedford's Memorial Day parade is Monday, starting at 11:30 from Parker Street and Hathaway Boulevard to Clasky Common Park where a speaking program and wreath-laying ceremonies will be held.

At 10am Monday on Pier Three, the New Bedford Port Society holds its annual Memorial Day Fishermen's Service.

More From WFHN-FM/FUN 107