Kim Fundingsland/MDN Gene Potter, Minot, salutes as the United States flag is brought forward during the Veterans Day Program held Monday in the former armory at the Minot Municipal Auditorium.

Honor. Sacrifice. Commitment.

With those three words, Pastor Daniel Andrus, Minot, began his address at the Veterans Day program in Minot Monday. The ceremony was held in the former armory, which is part of the Minot Municipal Auditorium complex.

Andrus, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, told the large gathering of veterans and their families that they all “made of difference in combat, in war or in peace, and they should all stand proud.”

“Today or yesteryear,”said Andrus, “We couldn’t do what we’ve done without family support. You are not forgotten. We are in this together. It’s our story. Today we honor our veterans and their families.”

It was an emotional ceremony. Some aging or injured veterans could only support themselves by the use of a walker or cane, but all stood and saluted and properly recognized the colors and their fellow veterans. Some walked with a noticeable limp. Many carried physical wounds of the past due to bullets or shrapnel.

“It puts my heart really on high on a day like this to see all the veterans,” said Gene Potter, Minot, a U.S. Army veteran and lifetime member of the Minot Disabled American Veterans. “This is probably the most important day for all us veterans.”

Veterans from all branches of the U.S. military were in attendance. All were recognized for their particular branch of service. The Glenburn school band played the song of each service branch as their respective flags were posted at the front of the gathering.

The entire crowd came to attention as taps was played to bring the formal portion of the ceremony to a solemn close. A few minutes later, the Glenburn band played rousing patriotic music and smiles returned to the faces of many.

“It’s been quite an honor. Quite an honor,” remarked Andrus at the end of the patriotic event. “It’s just a thrill to be able to talk to vets – guys that have been through the stuff, as they say.”