Showing gratitude and respect for veterans

More than 100 people who hold Memorial Day near and dear to their hearts gathered around the DuPage County's Veterans Memorial Sunday morning.

Together, this group of county and city officials, veterans, marines and family members, observed the national holiday.

"Today is a very special day," said Tom Mouhelis, Wheaton city councilman. "We come here to honor our men and women who served our country."

The ceremony, which took place a day before the official holiday, consisted of a Rolling Thunder motorcycle salute, the posting of colors, the national anthem, pledge of allegiance, speakers sharing thoughts, a wreath laying, a weapons salute and the playing of taps.

Clear skies and an easy breeze helped the ceremony move along as planned.

Keynote speaker Dirk Enger, co-chair of the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans' board of directors, asked all the veterans to raise their hands.

"To truly understand what today is all about," he said, "you have to understand what a veteran is."

He touched on personal experiences, and how important veterans are to the country's vitality.

DuPage County board Chairman Robert Schillerstrom shared his thoughts about Memorial Day Sunday.

"Today gives us an opportunity to reflect," he said. "We owe (the veterans) our gratitude and our respect."

John Pak, Wild Fire Chapter 1084's road captain, drove his bike during the Rolling Thunder Salute -- along with dozens of other bikers. He said the veterans keep the group coming back year after year.

"As a whole organization we come and present our appreciation for the veterans," Pak said. "It's just to support the veterans, support the community."

Sunday's group of riders was the largest they've had since they started participating in the observance.

"I think this has been a great turnout today," he said.