Veterans recall the hardship of service on the families left behind

In Europe they still call it Armistice Day. 

Here in the U.S. we call it Veterans Day.

A time when we recall November 11, 1918. Back then it was thought World War I would be the war to end all wars.

Many who gathered at the Milwaukee County War Memorial Wednesday recalled this and all the conflicts that would follow.

Many also spoke of the current day security concerns that consume any family with a loved one who is serving.

The opening prayer included the Veterans who struggle with addiction or homelessness and the hope that they would be able to prevail over their difficulties.

Many who took part in the ceremony completed multiple deployments and then continued to serve at home as a firefighter, police officer or sheriff's deputy.

Master Sergeant Trevor DeBoer of  Special Forces with the Illinois National Guard recalled the hardship of the families who would have to comfort the veteran when he returned home.

"You have nursed me back to health when I was injured. Fed me when I was hungry and made me better as a man, husband, father and Christian."  

Colonel Dennis Konkel of the Wisconsin National Guard noted the discomfort sometime when being approached by a civilian.

"Many times when I'm in my uniform in public, people will come up and say thank you.I feel a bit awkward because I volunteered for this. After discussing this dilemma with several of my fellow service members we came up with a response. Thank you. It's an honor to serve." 

The ceremony was put together by the Milwaukee Police Post 415 of The American Legion.

Wisconsin Lutheran students hosted a breakfast for some 400 veterans.

They paid special tribute to World War II with a special USO musical performance.

CBS 58's Michele McCormack also took a moment to thank the military moms.

This is her first Veterans Day as an Air Force Mom.

Her son is an Airman at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas whose flight finished as the top PT flight at graduation this past Friday.