Military veterans were joined by the public at Fort Hamilton on Wednesday to honor the brave men and women who fought to protect the nation. 

The ceremony started off with the national anthem and a presentation of colors.  

This year’s focus is on the 20th anniversary of the global war on terrorism, which was the world’s response to the attacks on 9/11. 

"While the attack took place on American soil, It is a day that is cemented in our minds because it was an attack on the heart and soul of the civilized world," says Maj. Roger Hafford, Executive Officer, U.S. Army.

Members of each branch of military service reflected on their time spent fighting and protecting our country.