» Wright brothers:

Neil Armstrong was among those to speak at Woodland Cemetery to mark the 100th anniversary of Wilbur Wright’s burial.

Despite less than DAYTON — perfect weather conditions Friday, hardly a seat remained at Woodland Cemetery as the community marked the 100th anniversary of Wilbur Wright’s burial.

Declared “Wilbur Wright Day” by Mayor Gary Leitzell, Friday afternoon was host to the commemorative memorial service that is part of the yearlong celebration of Wright’s life and achievements, “Wilbur Wright: A Life of Consequence.”

The service was held on the exact time, 3 p.m., and day of the original in 1912 and organizers even enlisted the help of Dayton’s Furst Florist to replicate a floral Wright Model B Flyer that was created by the Factory for the 1912 service.

Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, recounted the exploits of Wright, who along with his brother, Orville, invented the airplane. “Their invariable success in achieving what the most highly educated aeronautical experts had been unable to do is legendary,” he said.

More than a hundred spectators were gathered at Woodland.

Rick Young, a Wright historian and noted replica builder, delivered the eulogy.

Wright’s great-great niece Amanda Wright Lane said the ceremony was intended for the community to honor her ancestor.

“Today we should all celebrate that Uncle Will lived,” she said. “He really, really lived and he did it so brilliantly.”

Stephen Wright, a great-great nephew, remarked about Wilbur Wright’s smile. In pictures, he noted how Wright was often captured without a smile, some of it attributed to injuring his mouth while playing hockey. But he recalled his relatives telling him when the elder Wright was with his family, he was always smiling and playful with the children.

Guest speakers spoke also of Wright’s passion for flight, his innovation, genius and smile while highlighting his life and personality.

The service is one of eight events designed for the 2012 celebration of Wright.

Two events remain in the series, both taking place in October.

The first, the 107th Anniversary of Practical Flight and Balloon Glow, will be held on Oct. 5 at Carillon Historical Park.

The final event, to take place on Oct. 20 at the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center, celebrates the anniversary of the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.