MARSEILLES — Throngs of locals lined the streets of Marseilles Saturday with flags to welcome thousands of motorcyclists to town for the 10th annual Illinois Motorcycle Freedom Run.

As motorcyclists and attendees assembled at the Middle East Conflicts Memorial Wall for an afternoon ceremony, keynote speaker Maj. Gen. Mark A. Graham of the U.S. Army said the day was about remembering the men and women who gave their lives serving in the military.

"We are here to memorialize and honor those who served their country and have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom," he said. "These fallen heroes answered our nation's call, moving forward, and their efforts, struggles and sacrifices will never be forgotten, nor will it ever be forsaken."