Braintree Flag Day Ceremony Remembers Orlando Shooting Victims

Braintree, MA — A ceremony usually dedicated to remembering what the American flag symbolizes had a more somber meaning this year.

During the Braintree Flag Day ceremony, Mayor Joseph Sullivan paid tribute to 49 victims of Sunday's shooting in Orlando.

"This Flag Day is especially poignant in terms of the brutal act in Orlando. I think it's shocking for all of us to think that this activity can happen and continue. We as a community cannot accept that violent activity," Sullivan said during the roughly 20-minute ceremony at Town Hall.

Early Sunday morning, 50 people were killed inside the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando. There were 49 victims who were killed, with the shooter accounting for the 50th death.

With the flag at half-staff, local veteran Bill Varrasso raised the flag to full height to honor what it represents, before again lowering it in remembrance of those who lost their lives.

"We recognize the symbolism and importance of the flag. As we recognize the flag, we also remember those who lose their lives over the weekend," Sullivan said.

Following a moment of silence, the ceremony concluded with a rendition of "God Bless America" by those in attendance.