Woolwich residents observed Veterans Day by gathering in the historic Nequasset Meeting House and honoring our nation’s military personnel past and present.

Friday morning’s ceremony included brief addresses by U.S. Naval Reserve Chief Petty Officer Jason Warnke, U.S. Naval Capt. Scott Smith and Lloyd Coombs, U.S. Army veteran and Woolwich selectman.

The program opened with The Montsweagers playing a selection of popular patriotic tunes including “When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again” and the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps military themes.

Woolwich’s own Robert Meade, a Korean War veteran, led the gathering in a salute to the flag. Meade, who was a corporal during his military service, has the distinction of having served in two branches of the U.S. military — the Army and­ the Marine Corps.

In his invocation, the Rev. Dr. Alan Baughcum, pastor of Day’s Ferry Congregational Church, reminded the audience what we now celebrate as Veteran’s Day began as an observation marking the peace following the end of World War I. Armistice Day was later changed to Veterans Day. In recent years, it’s become an occasion to honor all men and women who have served their country in the armed services both in times of conflict and peace.

Warnke, a Woolwich native, said serving in the U.S. Navy for 20 years was the best career decision he ever made. He has served two tours in the Middle East stationed in both Iraq and Bahrain. Serving his country overseas gave him a much greater appreciation of America and the many freedoms we enjoy as a nation and written within our Constitution, he said. “I’ve learned many lessons from my military experience, the value of family, loyalty, friendship and also humility serving alongside my brothers in arms.

“Try not to let Veterans Day be the only day you think about men and women in uniform. Hearing a simple thank you from someone you don’t know means a lot.”

Warnke is serving in the U.S. Naval Reserve with the Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command in Dam Neck, Virginia.

Smith shared some of his thoughts about the “privilege of service” and what that has meant to him. He serves as Commander of the USS Michael Monsoor, DDG 1001. He’s also been a speechwriter and adviser including to the 18^th Chairman of the Joints Chiefs of Staff, General Martin Dempsey. Smith’s other operational assignments include deployments on the USS Donald B. Beary FF1085, USS Cole DDG 67, USS Stethem DDG63 and USS Ramage DDG 61.

Coombs wore his U.S. Army uniform Friday. He served from 1957 to 1959. “It’s important to remember all veterans. the men and women serving now and the ones who have come before. Service members come from all walks of life. Many didn’t volunteer but went to war because they were called to be part of something bigger than themselves,” he said.

Selectman Allison Hepler served as master of ceremonies. The Special Events Committee organized the event.

The program concluded with a closing prayer and standing ovation for all of the military personnel present and their families. The recreation committee provided refreshments at the conclusion of the program.