navy, the majority of which was on board the u.s.s. bunker hill. went onto deployment to the gulf. >> joined the united states air force right out of high school. went in as a generator mechanic, and then through that i've gotten placed in a civil engineering squadron. >> got drafted in february 1971. i was assigned to batallion in hamburg, germany, and i was in the u.s. army. >> veterans day today means a lot to me, especially since i served. >> it's not just a three-day weekend. >> we celebrate the participation and the historic role that the military plays in the security of this country. >> it's really great to take time out to recognize those who have served, those of us that like serving. >> it's a day to celebrate and remember what people have accomplished and sacrificed for this country. >> actually, i recognize veterans each and every day of the year, but i'm proud that we as a country come together and recognize all veterans for their service. >> it's about paying respect to the ones that have fallen. >> i always reflect on my connection