More than 24 million Americans have served our country in war and conflict. These veterans include local citizens and the men and women returning across the country from Iraq and Afghanistan. For Mr. Frank Buckles, who is the only remaining American veteran who served during World War I, Veterans Day is especially meaningful. At the age of 108, Buckles resides on a farm in West Virginia and recounts his experience driving an ambulance during the Great War. While Buckles experience is unique, he shares the same characteristics of many veterans whose determination and altruism are honored on Veterans Day. It is on this day that we reflect upon veterans who have honored their oath to defend freedom under U.S. law.

It cannot be overlooked that some Americans view Veterans Day simply as a day off of work. They may not think that recognizing veterans is particularly important. However, the support and recognition of veterans is not waning. Support for veterans is evident on both the national and state levels. Representatives in government are establishing initiatives for veterans and also approving the construction of veteran parks across the country. Americans recognize that local history is significant due to veterans who have preserved and protected the region.

In May of 2006, the Hopewell Valley Veterans Association (HVVA) started raising funds for the construction of a veterans park. The development has come a long way due to the generosity of local businesses and citizens. The Veterans Memorial is a beautiful gem with a bronze eagle statuary. The memorial includes engraved bricks with the names of 300-plus local veterans. Last year, the group's goal of constructing a handicapped accessible parking lot at the Memorial was achieved. HVVA is currently raising funds to move the Harts Corner School House to the park to serve as an interpretive museum. The museum will document the experiences of local veterans and incorporate historical artifacts.

On Saturday, Nov. 7 at 11 a.m. HVVA is hosting their annual Veterans Day ceremony at Alliger Park. Community members are invited to attend. The keynote speaker for this event is Gen. James Grant, Chief of the Joint Staff at the N.J. National Guard. Gen. Grant will discuss the historical significance of Veterans Day. The ceremony will include an invocation by Col. (Ret) Robert Shaub and a 21-gun salute conducted by the Golf Battery 3/14 Battalion, USMC. Military displays at the park will include: a MTVR 7 Ton tactical truck, HUMWV and a M777 Howitzer Artillery cannon. The Marching Black & Gold High School Band will provide music.