WEST PARIS – A crowd braved cold November wind Sunday as the Ring-McKeen American Legion Post honored servicemen and women who fought so Americans can live in freedom.

In the words of pastor and veteran Lloyd Waterhouse, “Veterans Day is a time for all Americans to give thanks for the sacrifices made by men and women throughout our country’s history who have fought bravely under our flag for all of us. Our flag identifies us as Americans and we must never forget those who have served to keep American freedom alive.”

Veteran Harold Wilbur spoke of the importance of never forgetting those who served saying, “Veterans Day is a special day when we must stop, honor and thank those who have served and are serving today. Their service must be recognized.”

Veteran and Selectman Wade Rainey said, “Today we honor all veterans and their families. They shall never be forgotten.”

As part of the program Alta Pierce offered a poem remembering servicemen and women, and Doreen Wilbur spoke dedicating new granite benches in front off the war memorial.

Earlier, veterans from the post, auxiliary members, scouts and school children marched from the Agnes Gray School to Memorial Park.

A flag raising ceremony at the fire station was also held.