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CARTERVILLE, Ill. (WSIL) -- Veterans and family members gather to honor those who served the country, and also those who lost their lives in the line of duty at the Veterans Memorial in Carterville.

Commander Al Yancey with the John A. Logan #347 American Legion Post in Carterville says it's an honor to run the community programming.

“Just being part of these guys that have served along with me. You know, they give up what they had here to go over there to fight for our freedom,� Yancey said.

Calvin Scott was one of many veterans in attendance. He served in the Army during the Vietnam War.

“I can't stay home on a day like today. I had to go somewhere for a ceremony. So I'm happy to be here, and for this Veterans Day, thank all the veterans and everything because they had to pay the price,� Scott said.

The honor guard also gave a three-volley salute to honor those who died in the line of duty.

“But these days like this, you know, brings back memories for me, especially the men's lost their lives in Vietnam and all the other service there that the guys that have paid their dues,� Scott said.

The city welcomed guest speaker U.S. Navy Captain Jonathan Mitchell who spoke on the mental toll some service members and veterans have to deal with.

“It found that military members were nine times more likely to die of suicide than combat. I believe we owe all veterans to help them thrive,� Mitchell said.

Veterans were also able to learn about a service dog program that they could apply for through  This Able Veteran. Attendees saw a demonstration with a service dog alerting its handler about an anxiety attack. 

After the ceremony, people gathered with their loved ones to take pictures and share their experiences in the service.