Hundreds turn out for Veterans Day of Honor & Parade

There was no shortage of ways to honor the men and women who have served the country. There were bagpipes, drums, flags waving and so much more.

Hundreds of veterans and military members marched through downtown Milwaukee for the 55th Annual Veterans Day of Honor & Parade.

"When you have a day like today, people come out to the parade, it makes me feel like it's worth it, proud, happy, just proud of myself," said Algie Smith, of the 44th Army Reserve.

Every year on the Saturday before Veterans Day, a large parade is held as a way to say 'Thank You'.

"It's a time to reflect and remember," said Terry Longo, Navy and Army veteran.

Mayor Tom Barrett showed his appreciation by taking part in the event. Some area high school students also showed their appreciation.

"We made cards for all of them, we just want to show our support cause they've done so much for us and we just want to pay it back," said Hannah Deck, student at Wisconsin Lutheran High School.

This year's parade held special significance. Commemorating the 100th anniversary of WWI, a memorial service took place at the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center. There was a wreath laying for the lives lost.

During the service, organizers remembered the lives of two veterans who they said helped make the parade possible -- Prentice Jones Sr. and Mike Downey. Both men died earlier in the  year.