GIRARD — Residents of Girard and other communities came together Monday evening in the city for two special services to honor veterans.

The Veterans Day celebration hosted by the Girard Veterans Council began with a parade to the Officer Justin Leo Memorial Bridge for a service to honor Navy veterans with the casting of a wreath from the viaduct into the Mahoning River.

A second service took place at the war memorial by Girard City Hall, where Sheila Cornell, ladies auxiliary president for American Legion Post 235, placed a wreath. Bob Stanton, quartermaster for Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 419, said the day is meant to honor veterans and all their sacrifices to secure peace and freedom for us.

“Our veterans put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms that we enjoy. They dedicated their lives to our country and deserve to be recognized,” Stanton said.

He said he hoped those in attendance would show gratitude to veterans every day of the year.

Stanton, a Vietnam veteran who served in the U.S. Army in 1969 and 1970, said the Girard Veterans Council has hosted this and other events for many years.

“It is important to remember veterans not only today, but every day. Thank our veterans for the freedoms that we enjoy every day of our lives,” he said.

Mayor Mark Zuppo said “these are the greatest men and women who have served our nation with unwavering dedication.

“Veterans Day is a time to recognize the sacrifices of those who wore the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. They stood on the front lines ensuring our freedoms. Our veterans come from diverse backgrounds, representing the rich tapestry of our country. They have served at times of peace and conflict, in air and at sea, in desert and jungles. They all share a common bond of service and sacrifice.”

The Rev. Rhonda Gallagher, pastor of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, said, “This Veterans Day, we remember those who walked willingly not knowing what would face them in wars.

“We want them to know our love and support not just on Veterans Day, but all days. We give thanks to the men and women who have given their lives. We honor and remember them today for allowing us the freedom to live in a better place, free and peaceful,” Gallagher said.

Members of Boy Scout Troops 40 and 83 helped with the flag raising.