On Nov. 11, adults and children may be seen placing miniature flags into the ground by veteran gravestones. There’s one day out of the year people can salute those who have fought for our country; Veterans Day. Veterans Day honors all those who have served the country, whether in war or peace.

“I’ve ran in some Veteran Day races,” veteran and math teacher Mike Pearce said. “They’re usually held around Veterans Day and the money raised goes to Veterans support organizations. I’ve done a bunch of them in Burton; they have a big group of runs and they have one for Veterans Day another for Memorial Day.”

Participating in activities isn’t the only way to support Veterans. A few words, thanking them for their service have the ability to put a smile on their face and make them feel appreciated. Flags being flown around town and Veterans Day parades being held are some ways to honor Veterans and thank them for their service.

“People have this stereotype that veterans are really weird and edgy, but that’s not the case,” junior Michael Krieg said. “The teachers of JROTC are veterans. They are nice and want the best for us. People can show respect by thanking them for their service and just genuinely being nice towards them, especially because they put themselves out there to protect the country.”

On Veterans Day, people honor those who have fought for the country in numerous ways. Cherishing and honoring those who have fought is what the day is all about.

“Veterans Day to me means that not only do we honor our fallen men and women that have died for our nation, but we celebrate and cherish those who have made it back and have or continue to serve our country every day, all while also protecting our freedoms and upholding constant virtues,” senior Seth Sutter said. “I think that people should always thank a veteran or a serviceman/woman on active duty every chance they get. Sometimes, even a “thank you for your service” can go a long way.”

Veterans with all different backgrounds, whether newly retired or older, are honored on Veterans Day.

“If you see a veteran whether you know them or not, you should thank them and be kind,” Sutter said. “They deserve the absolute best because they are quite simply our finest citizens. People should also take into account our older veterans like our World War II, Korea, and Vietnam veterans, who are now becoming fewer and fewer every day. This Veterans Day, I hope that veterans and active duty personnel alike are treated with dignity and respect. All gave some, but some gave all. They really did, and deserve our gratitude, and our love.”