(Little Rock, KATV) — Today is Veterans Day, and several ceremonies have been held across the state to honor veterans, one of which took place this morning at the Saline County Courthouse.

“I try to come every year. We’re all brothers and sisters,” said Vietnam veteran Clark T. Hopper.

“Oh, I don’t know how I could say it, because it makes my heart swell. It makes my heart feel good,” said Victor Kerr, former Arkansas state commander of the VFW.

It is a ceremony held annually on Veterans Day to specifically recognize former members of the United States armed forces and highlight the importance of their sacrifices.

A Vietnam veteran in attendance has had many experiences during his 26 years of active duty and still displays pride for his country.

“I think our veterans are the reason America is free today,” Hopper said.

In the crowd, filled with former members of all six military branches and various wars, was a man who says service runs through his family, as his grandfather was a veteran of World War I, his father was active during World War II and, he has a brother who also served.

“To me, the veterans who have served here are a valuable asset to the United States,” said former Combat Engineer Sgt. / Veteran, said Robert Terry Harrison.

Kerr, who served as the speaker for the event, shared the importance of recognizing our veterans today and every day.

“Because if we don’t do it like we originally did, we’re down to about 22 a day from suicide and probably over 100 from death. That’s going to go by the wayside,” Kerr said.

The three men each left a message for veterans around the world.

“Don’t be discouraged,” Harrison said. “As veterans, we must be united. We have all been trained together as one unit, and we must always remember that we are on one side, and that is the American side.” he added.

“I’m a veteran, I serve veterans and I want everyone to know that I’m here to help them however I can,” Kerr said.

“Thank you for your service and God bless America,” Hopper said.

The Saline County Veterans Memorial also features the engraved names of former service members, where many were delighted to find their names and those of their loved ones during the ceremony.

Veterans looking for more information on how to add their name, click here.