RIVERSIDE, Calif. (KABC) -- An annual tradition at the Riverside National Cemetery still happened on Tuesday, thanks to the help of volunteers.

At the pavilion overlooking the Riverside National Cemetery, songs and poetry paid heartfelt tribute on Veterans Day.

The annual ceremony that normally draws hundreds was canceled due to the government shutdown , but for Chy'Anne Smock and her family, that didn't stop them from honoring those laid to rest there.

"We were very disappointed that the Flag for Every Hero was canceled," Smock said. "And we were really looking forward to placing the flags again for this year."

Every year, a sea of red, white and blue flags covers the cemetery in a small act of remembrance. The government shutdown forced the cancellation of this year's ceremony, ye

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