The annual Veterans Day program at Dyer-Gunnell American Legion Post 180 in Vienna carried on the tradition of solemnity and respect, paying tribute to the veterans who made it home safely and those who did not.

An empty chair sat at a table in memory of those missing-in-action. An Auxiliary member presented the ceremonial wreath. A firing squad shot off blanks into the air, saluting the veterans who freely gave of themselves during wartime.

“I think we’ve got Veterans Day covered,” said Jim Flynn of Vienna, World War II Army Air Corps. “People never forget what we did. When I wear my cap, some people will recognize it and thank me for what I did in World War II.

“It’s happened so many times, perfect strangers coming up to me.”

Not many World War II soldiers are left. At American Legion Post 180 in Vienna on Veterans Day, a dozen WWII warriors gathered together with friends and community, sharing recollections of battles and camaraderie. Veterans from the Korean War, Vietnam and the Gulf wars came together.

Post Chaplain Charles Nackos stood in for Post Commander Bob Hatter, inviting each veteran, from all U.S. wars, to stand and offer some words regarding his or her service. Some flew fighters or bombers; some supported aircraft on the ground and on ships. Others worked intelligence in the nation’s capital, others in Europe and Africa. Some carried fallen comrades to ambulances, some strafed Berlin or landed in Iwo Jima. Some had Purple Hearts or the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Elected officials came to honor the veterans, including newly-elected 35th District Del. Mark Keam (D).

Shirley Martin of the Auxiliary presented the ceremonial wreath in honor of Veterans Day, and lunch was served after the ceremony.