PEORIA ( 25News Now ) - Emotions were high at the Peoria Riverfront Museum on Saturday, as families who have lost loved ones in combat joined other community members to honor fallen heroes.

America’s Gold Star Families hosted its 10th Fallen Heroes Tree of Honor Ceremony. Families received a uniquely decorated ornament with an image or name of a fallen soldier.

They were then able to place it on the Christmas tree in the museum lobby.

The organization’s president hopes that for many, this process brings them peace and hope for a holiday season without their loved ones.

“We’re here to provide honor, hope and healing for our Gold Star families. This is a way to continue to remember those fallen and continue speaking their name so they can continue to live forever,” said Frances Maddox

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