ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, Ill. — On Saturday, veterans who served our nation were honored at the Rock Island National Cemetery.
As part of the Wreaths Across America, program, which aims to ensure veterans are not forgotten during the holiday season, various wreaths were placed across the cemetery where many members of the armed forces are laid to rest.
Maj. Gen. Jeffrey W. Jurasek, served in active duty with the 5th Infantry Division, 5th Forward Support Battalion as a platoon leader and deployed with an element that participated in Operation Just Cause in Panama in 1989. He said that Saturday's ceremony reminds us of those who served, they are never alone.
"Sometimes after the war everybody gets back, they just think it's over," Jurasek said. "That's not the case and events like this is a continuation of the great respect this country has for those that have served."
Jurasek added that for nearly 40 years, he served overseas and often didn't spend time with his family during the holidays. Seeing many people coming out, embracing the rain, and honoring veterans meant the world to him.
Watch more news, weather and sports on News 8's YouTube channel