Veterans Day

“If you love freedom and liberty, thank one of our 21 million American men and women who swore with their lives to protect it. Veterans day is our time to salute them all.”

When word came on Nov. 11, 1918 that a truce was signed ending of "the war to end all wars," great jubilation erupted in Riverhead, where residents, in less than a week, organized a huge celebration — including two parades and a rally.

Photos: Riverhead honored its veterans today at the War Memorial on West Main Street, with a wreath-laying ceremony coordinated by the Riverhead Combined Veterans Committee.

The family of deceased Vietnam veteran Willie Riley of Riverhead received his long-lost Purple Heart Medal today during a ceremony at Calverton National Cemetery.

Since Veterans Day falls on a Saturday this year, schools and many — but not all — government offices and businesses are closed today in observance of the holiday.

"Our crossing guard, our maintenance guy, our security guard – these veterans are adults the kids see every day." Veterans spoke with third graders at Roanoke Avenue Elementary today about their experiences in the military, answering questions and changing perspectives.

Veterans groups from across eastern Suffolk County participated in Veterans Day ceremonies this afternoon at Calverton National Cemetery, witnessed by an audience of several hundred spectators.

A small crowd of veterans and residents gathered in front of Riverhead's war memorial on West Main Street to pay their respects for Veterans Day.

Where and when you can honor veterans on Friday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day, a federal holiday.

Photos: Veterans who live at Riverhead Care Center were feted Wednesday with music, cards, flowers and certificates.