Parades, prayers and people paying tribute to those who sacrificed for others marked Memorial Day around the region.
In Muncy, the annual parade followed by a graveside service marked the festivities.
And in Williamsport, the Civil War Memorial Day Service remembered those who gave their lives so others could enjoy the nation's freedoms.
Dave Richards, a Gettysburg National Military Park battlefield guide, traced the origins of Memorial Day for a small crowd of people at the Muncy Cemetery.
A number of communities, he said, have been credited with starting Memorial Day either during or right after the Civil War.
Among them, the Centre County community of Boalsburg where a small group of women visited the graves of their deceased war veteran relatives.
"Whatever its origins, it's not about division but reconciliation," he said.
Despite its observance locally, some areas of the nation, particularly in the South, do not recognize Memorial Day.
Richards noted that since the American Revolution, more than 1.3 million Americans have lost their lives in U.S. wars.
"The very least we can do is set aside one day a year to honor their sacrifices," he said.
Courtney Ebner, a Muncy High School student, read her 2011 American Legion Auxiliary award-winning essay.
She said sacrifices made by the military since the American Revolution have allowed the nation to embrace life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
The 46th Pennsylvania Band performed and "taps" was played in tribute to fallen veterans.
The annual parade, comprised of local high school bands, veterans groups and other organizations, kicked off at 11 a.m., winding its way from North Main Street to East Penn Street and the cemetery.
Members of Co. D, 11th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry of the North-South Skirmish Association, conducted services at the Grand Army of the Republic Circle in Wildwood Cemetery.
To mark the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War, members performed the service in military uniforms of the period.
Wayne Sager, acting 1st Sgt. of Co. D, told the small crowd that sacrifices of those who died fighting the Civil War must be remembered.
Co. D members marched past onlookers in the cemetery and around the Grand Army of the Republic Circle where war veterans are buried.
Chase Petro performed "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" on violin.
In tribute to the war dead, three shots were fired from a cannon followed by "taps."
