Rochester’s Veterans Day Observance returns with large turnout

(ABC 6 News) – There were many events honoring veterans in our area today.

Around 600 veterans and their families gathered at the International Event Center in Rochester to celebrate those who fought for our freedom.

The event featured a free breakfast from the Canadian Honker along with military and law enforcement speakers, poetry, and singing.

Color guards took turns marching through the event and posting colors and this was the first year law enforcement was involved in the ceremony.

"It’s important so they remember the veterans, so they don’t forget. We owe them so much, and it’s the same with the police. We owe them so much," said Former Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial President Wayne Stillman.

Local veterans say it’s great to be together on this holiday because they understand each other.

As our veterans get older they wonder if younger generations will remember their sacrifice.

"It lets us feel our freedom. I survived it we survived it. But it taught us how to become leaders," Lester Griebenow, United States Army said during the ceremony.

Their message: Thank a veteran. They don’t hear it enough.