For seven individuals at Grandview Villa Assisted Living, this Veterans Day is one they never will forget.

As part of their annual Veterans Day festivities, members of the American Legion Post 29 honored several residents who dedicated their lives to serving their country. Through music, prayers and stories, the achievements of each honoree were celebrated. Each veteran also was presented with a poppy to wear as a token of appreciation.

"We want to take a few moments today to wish you all the best and to show our appreciation for all that you have done for our country," said Lynn Mullinax, project officer for American Legion Post 29. "We think you deserve all the honor today, and we are thankful to celebrate this day with you. Life can be busy, but we all need to take a moment to show our gratitude to each and every veteran."

Among those honored were Luba Smith, a Red Cross nurse stationed on an Army base; Clarence Waters, an Army veteran; Gerald Messer, a veteran Marine; James Coffey, an Army veteran; and Woodrow Holden, a Navy veteran. James Pipes and Don Hoyle also were recognized for their years of service to the North Carolina National Guard.

"We are here today to honor these men and women for their service to our country," Mullinax said. "Without them we wouldn't have the freedoms and opportunities we have today, so I want to thank the Lord for allowing us to honor them as we best know how."

Each veteran shared stories of their years of active service and the places they were stationed. Some had been to Pearl Harbor and Japan, while others stuck closer to home. They have worked on equipment, repaired the wounds of the injured and built prison camps. No matter their service, each one said they were proud to serve their country.

"I am proud to an American," said Mike McCoy, Post 29 vice commander. "God bless America, God bless the veterans and God bless you."