PEORIA, Ill. (25 News) – Central Illinois Gold Star families held its annual commemoration Saturday.

The ceremony included several speakers, songs and the Missing Man Table ceremony.

Executive Director Designate Darin Funk said the event is meant to help Gold Star families heal and spend some time together before the holidays.

“Remember the holidays when you’re at your family’s table, and you’re sitting there and you’ve got all your families there,” Funk said. “These are the families who do not have their loved ones there.”

The event was funded through donations to Peoria-based Gold Star families.

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