OBSERVER Photo by Natasha Matteliano

Gowanda canceled all of the regular ceremonies and festivities for Memorial Day, but still honors those who gave everything by hanging the giant American flag in the village, for all to see. “This Memorial Day weekend Gowanda humbly honors the 1,439,215 American men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice to fight for the blanket of freedom our community enjoys and appreciates everyday,” said Gowanda Mayor David Smith. “May God bless our great country!”