Honoring veterans at a landmark NJ cemetery

WRIGHTSTOWN, N.J. (WPVI) -- Images captured on Veteran's Day this year showed the faces of some of our veterans.

They are men and women who served America in wars past and present, who do and have done the gritty, unglamorous and often dangerous work of protecting our freedom.

Veterans Day is a day to honor them, as well as those who've passed but once proudly wore a uniform.

"We lost some people," said Vietnam veteran Lawrence Webre. "And we're still losing people. War is hell."

"You see some of these young kids come back your heart breaks for them. Did you ever see some of their injuries and all?" said Mark Mariano of NamKnights of America.

"If you did away with the military, everything we know would be gone in a generation. I think it's a day for everybody to hopefully take some time and reflect and be thankful that we have folks who are willing to do this mission," said NJ National Guard Commander Brigadier General Robert Bolton.

"We've sent our bravest men and women to virtually every corner of the globe," said NJ Gov. Chris Christie.

Christie attended a ceremony Tuesday at the General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, the final resting place for over 56,000 vets and their families.

Also there was 89-year-old Robert Yancey of Florence, one of the famed Buffalo Soldiers who served in the segregated Army and Navy and survived World War 2, Korea and Vietnam.

"I count my blessings every day," said Yancey. "And I think it's high time the public and the people learn the price of freedom. Freedom is not free."

Veterans Day was started in 1919 at the end of World War I to honor those who died for their country. These days it's often associated with store sales and for some, a day off.

But that's not what you think about when you're standing in the Doyle Veterans Cemetery.

What I think about on Veterans Day is all of the fallen brothers who really didn't make it home, who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation," said Skip Hamilton of NamKnights of America.

"That's the way I feel when I'm here: at peace. And I hope he is. I'm sure he is," Mae Applegate of Manchester, N.J.

"Every time they see a veteran, go over and thank him. It doesn't happen as often as it should. But it really means a lot," said Vincent Borrelli of the Marine Corps League.