Veterans Day observed in powerful ceremony at Milwaukee's War Memorial Center

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- There will be services across the nation honoring Veterans Day on Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021. Here in Milwaukee, inside the War Memorial Center, veterans gathered to pay tribute to all of the men and woman who've worn a military uniform. 

The Milwaukee Police Band played songs from each of the five military branches, and veterans from each branch stood when their song came on.

"We remember the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, because that was the time of the signing of the Armistice Day. The end of the Great War as it was known," said Kendel Feilen, a retired veteran for the US Coast Guard. 

 It was an emotional ceremony for some veterans as they came to the podium to speak about their fellow veterans.

"These common men and women have always done, and will continue to do, uncommon things," said Michael B. Koszuta, a retired command sergeant for the US Army Reserve. 

Tribute was paid to all veterans, including those who served during a time of war and those who continue to serve in Iraq today. 

"Today I definitely consider myself in the company of heroes - past, present and future," said Feilen. 

Veterans then moved outside to lay a wreath near the eternal flame, representing the 3,481 men and women in Milwaukee County who've served, and died, since World War II. 

The ceremony closed with Taps and a rifle salute. 

You can visit the War Memorial Center and its exhibits outside of Veterans Day.