Thank you to all who have served

Today we honor each and every veteran who made sacrifices for us and our freedom.

Thank you to every man and woman who has fought to protect us.

Veterans Day and the events in conjunction with it offer us each a chance to reflect and show our gratitude for their service.

This year, a new event called the Veterans Day Extravaganza has been planned "in an effort to help military veterans and facilitate lasting friendships," according to a recent Southeast Missourian article.

The event at The Venue is one of many across the region, and will be held starting today. Hours for the free event today and Saturday are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. There will be a party at 8 p.m. today. Sunday hours are from noon to 6 p.m. with a performance by the Jerry Ford Orchestra at 3 p.m.

There will be representatives from social-services agencies and other resources for veterans, Bobby Warner, The Venue's event coordinator and a veteran himself, said.

Donations will be accepted. "This is a three-day event to raise as much money as we can for veterans in the tri-state area," Warner said. Contributions will benefit veterans in Missouri, Illinois and Kentucky.

For information on other Veterans Day events, including the 17th annual Veterans Honor Service, a Veterans Day Breakfast and local schools Veterans Day programs, visit www. semissourian.com/story/2356799.html.

One veteran was recently highlighted in the Southeast Missourian, Gen. Seth McKee. McKee, a former Cape Girardeau resident, is a veteran of World War II. He is the oldest living American four-star general, recently turning 100 years old, and was awarded the rank of Chevalier (Knight) in the National Order of the Legion of Honor; it is the "highest honor the government of France bestows on its citizens and on foreign nationals," reporter Bridget Brown wrote.

To all veterans: thank you for your service.