Triangle Veterans Day events recognize military service and family sacrifices

Veterans, families and community members gathered across the Triangle on Veterans Day to recognize military service and the sacrifices it requires. From an early morning run at NC State to a ceremony in Cary, the observances also gave participants an opportunity to consider what service means after leaving the military.

Hundreds participated in NC State's annual Honor Run before sunrise, running to recognize veterans in their own lives. A wreath-laying ceremony followed at the university's bell tower, continuing the morning's recognition of those who had served.

For Iraq War veteran Jonah Alva, Veterans Day provides space to look back on his military experience while considering his responsibilities as a veteran. He described the transition out of active military service as a chance to ask how he can keep contributing to his community. His reflections connected remembrance of past service with the question of what comes next.

Alva also said the occasion allows people to put their differences aside and recognize what connects them. Reflecting on earlier generations, he emphasized a shared story larger than individual disagreements and the importance of taking time to acknowledge those who came before.

In Cary, veterans joined other community members at Veterans Freedom Park for a ceremony recognizing people who served. U.S. Army veteran Diana Hurtado urged those attending to include military families in that recognition. She described spouses keeping households together, children spending time waiting and parents missing hospital visits, birthdays and family celebrations because of the demands of military service.

Nick Drake, director of Jeffrey Wright Military and Veterans Services, spoke about service across generations of his own family. His grandfather served in World War II, and his father served in Vietnam. While experiences and motivations differ from one generation to another, Drake said they share a commitment to contributing to something larger than themselves through selfless service.

The observances brought expressions of thanks together with reflection on veterans' experiences and the support provided by their families. Speakers addressed both the personal meaning of military service and the sacrifices shared by relatives throughout that service.

Retired U.S. Air Force veteran Russ Hughes expressed gratitude to those who answered the nation's call and to family members who served alongside them. Addressing veterans and their families, he said, "your community is indebted, and we are unanimous in our gratitude."