MARION – In World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and the Korean War, thousands of Americans fought to maintain the freedom and liberties of the United States.

Without these conflicts, Americans would not live the life they have today. Which is why veterans across the country are honored and thanked.

Yesterday students of the Marion Military Institute showed their gratitude with a special Veterans Day exhibition on the school’s parade grounds.

“For us, Veterans Day is a day to remember the soldiers involved in conflicts, both abroad and on homelands, who are dying for our freedom,” Master Sgt. Scott Thibeau said.

The display included the band, a presentation of colors and a review where cadets walked past the single-filed honorees to get a good look at their past.

“I think this is wonderful,” Vietnam veteran Billy Sanders said.

“This is an honor,” WWII veteran Walt Abrams said.

“It’s a wonderful thing to be asked to speak at such an event,” two-time Vietnam War, Gulf War and Bosnia veteran Bill Hansen said. “This is a brotherhood. When you are out there, you are fighting for the soldier next to you, but in the long run, you realize the true purpose is for your country.”

Although Hansen said being a Veteran is one of those things they are proud of but wish they never had to do, Abrams and Sanders had a different opinion.

“This is my country. I love my country and I’d fight for it at any minute,” Sanders said.

When asked if he’d do it again, Sanders didn’t hesitate to say yes.

At that moment Abrams, who jokingly proclaimed himself as “retired and retarded,” added, “and I’d try.”