Warsaw American Legion Post 49 hosted a Veterans Day assembly this afternoon.

Veterans and civilians alike came out to pay their respect and honor those who have served our country and protected our freedoms.

The assembly opened with an Armed Forces medley performed by the Warsaw Community High School band. As each branch of the armed forces’ anthem was played, veterans stood and were recognized by the crowd.

The American Legion Post 49 Commander Ray Bledsoe welcomed the crowd. The welcome was followed by the tolling of the bells and an invocation by Chaplain Tom Everett.

Former Warsaw Mayor Jeff Plank gave an impassioned speech, celebrating the importance of our service men and women. After Plank’s speech, veteran Jordan Mayfield was presented with the Meritorious Service Award. Then 94-year-old veteran Bruce Howell Jr. was awarded the Order of Kosciusko Award.

A 21 gun salute and performance of Taps closed the ceremony.