On Wednesday, Memorial Park in Omaha became a gathering place for veterans, students and community members who came together to honor those who have served in the United States military. The event, part of the city’s Veterans Day remembrance, featured wreaths representing each branch of the armed forces and a color guard presented by Northwest High School’s JROTC program.

Personal reflections from a veteran

Former Omaha City Council member and Marine Corps veteran Garry Gernandt spoke about the deep personal meaning of the ceremony. Gernandt, who served as a sergeant in the 1960s, recalled losing several friends during the Vietnam War. “Having lost several friends during the Vietnam War and studying history, it has always been close to my heart,” he said. “I want to continue to do this as long as I’m healthy enough to get out and do the remembrance.”

Veterans share simple gratitude

Veteran Dick Silvernail summed up the day’s purpose in a single sentence: “It’s good to honor them today.” His comment underscored the straightforward gratitude felt by many who attended.

Youth learn from experience

The ceremony also gave a younger generation an opportunity to learn from veterans. Northwest High School senior Kayla Ortiz and her JROTC classmates presented the color guard, and Ortiz explained, “Veterans Day means just to honor the veterans and to remember what they did.” Fellow student Mathyus Lincoln added that conversations with veterans have been “really enjoyable and beneficial” for him.

A reminder of service to civilians

Gernandt emphasized that Veterans Day is not only about honoring service members but also about remembering the civilians they protect. While presenting his wreath, he said, “When they say to me, ‘Thank you for your service,’ I look them right in the eye and I say, ‘You were worth it.’”

Community participation

Families, local organizations and members of the public filled the park, creating a respectful atmosphere of remembrance. The wreath‑laying ceremony, the color guard and the shared stories highlighted the strong ties between Omaha’s veteran community and its younger residents.

Looking ahead

Organizers hope that the event will continue to foster intergenerational dialogue and reinforce the values of service, sacrifice and gratitude that are central to Omaha’s heritage. As the day concluded, participants left with a renewed commitment to honor and support those who have defended the nation’s freedoms.

Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.