SOLDIER FIELD (WBBM Newsradio) -- Hundreds of veterans and their loved ones joined city and community leaders at Chicago's official Veterans Day observance at the lakefront stadium literally named in honor of the country's servicemen and women.
"This is really nice, what the city does for us," Army veteran and Pilsen resident Ricardo Almaguer said before the start of Wednesday's ceremony inside the United Club at the stadium, 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive.
Speakers including Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle thanked veterans for their service, and noted contributions veterans have made to the area.
"It's our veterans that reflect the great, vibrant diversity of our city," the mayor said.
"Events like this put on my heart the remembrance of every man and women who served and those that have served before me," said Navy veteran and church deacon John Stansberry, who served for ten years, including during the Iran-Iraq conflicts.
Participants in Junior ROTC programs at Chicago public high schools took part in the nearly hour-long ceremony, which ended with the presentation of a wreath at the "Doughboys" statue just inside the stadium's south gate.
Almaguer said events like the city's commemoration are a great opportunity to reunite with fellow service members, adding that he hoped younger comrades can keep that fellowship alive: "I tell them, 'you guys gotta keep this going,' because we don't want it fading away."
Vets, loved ones gather at Soldier Field for annual event
Vets, loved ones gather at Soldier Field for annual event
