Many of the veterans taking part in the ceremony were among those who peacefully protested during the NATO summit and returned their medals.
One speaker grew emotional while talking about the meaning behind Memorial Day.
"Memorial Day is the day we remember their sacrifices," one veteran said. "It should be the day that we ask why. why they had to, pause, because the goal of our society and every society should be, pause, a world where such sacrifice is not necessary."
Many speakers called for the immediate withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan as well as improved mental health treatment for veterans once they return home.
