Long Island residents modified their Memorial Day celebrations this year due to restrictions put in place to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Terrance Holliday, a nearly 38-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force, was one of only about a dozen people present at Greenfield Cemetery for the village of Hempstead's ceremony.

"Given the circumstances of everything that's going on right now, it was really beautiful," Holliday says.

The ceremony was one of many on Long Island that had to be scaled back due to social distancing rules caused by COVID-19. Other events, like the usual parade in Hempstead had to be canceled altogether.

Residents are finding new ways to observe those who sacrificed their life for our country this year. Freeport High School students put on a virtual tribute while local officials will be part of a car parade from Nassau Coliseum to Eisenhower Park on Monday.

"In the midst of this lockdown, of this pandemic, we still find a way to express our feelings," says Seaford Rep. Peter King. "So I would say, fly the American flag, be proud of it."

Holliday says it's important to remember those who died for our freedom.

"You should be mindful of what these folks have done throughout the years," he says. "From the War of Independence to today."