Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2015 was a tribute to all Veterans, those still serving throughout OIF/OEF operations to those who have served in America's past wars: those remembering the 25th anniversary of the start of the Gulf War, 40th anniversary of the ending of the Vietnam War, 65th anniversary of the start of the Korean War, the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII, and the 97th remembrance of the ending of the First World War.

There is a lot to remember and a lot more to be thankful for. These brave men and women have served their country in times of need not to be recognized one day out of the year, but to have the opportunity to enjoy every day in a free country with friends and family.

Minnesota has proudly produced many Veterans of each campaign, and boasts a Veteran community of over 360,000. More than 700 of these Veterans and their family members came out to show their pride and to be honored by those that are thankful for them and their service to our country. Of those giving thanks were state leaders such as Senator Amy Klobuchar, representatives from the offices of Senator Al Franken and Congressman John Kline, WCCO Anchor Frank Vascellaro and 5th graders from Pine Bend Elementary.

I was deeply humbled at the devotion my students have to our Veterans. They sang their hearts out with smiles on their faces; you could tell they were thankful for the opportunity to express their gratitude by singing the service songs, signing the Anthem, and sharing their speeches," Mrs. Klotz, music teacher and SSgt in the Army National Guard, said.

With many thanks and a musical salute by the 34th Infantry Division Red Bull Band, Veterans and the community present enjoyed a pre-ceremonial breakfast where they shared their stories, laughed, and were filled with the camaraderie that was established during their time of service. Many enjoyed taking pictures with Ms. Minnesota, Rachel Latuff, and signing the More Than Names flag that WCCO presented to all of the Military members in the state.

The More Than Names flag was a mission that WCCO started in order to show gratitude toward our Veterans. It is a flag that was signed by over 120,000 Minnesota residents and is 102 by 76 feet. It has become a record-breaking achievement and a way to say "thank you" to all of our Veterans.

It was a great day to honor our Veterans of Minnesota and all over the country. We are thankful for their service, thankful for their commitment, and thankful that they are alive and well in the land of the free, and the home to the brave. To view photos from the event visit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/mdva/albums/72157661518279236.