EPHRATA — American flags lined Basin Street Wednesday morning as veterans, community members and local organizations gathered for Ephrata’s annual Veterans Day parade, a celebration that participants said served as both a show of gratitude and a time for reflection.

Veterans representing multiple generations of service marched through downtown while spectators waved flags and applauded from the sidewalks. For many of the veterans, the event was an opportunity to remember those who served alongside them and those who never came home.

For Army veteran Guy Hopkins, the turnout was especially meaningful.

“I've lived in a lot of communities,” Hopkins said. “This was the first, in decades, that I've seen that actually does something. This is amazing, what Ephrata comes out and actually does for the community. It means a lot to me.”

Hopkins said he appreciated the recognition but emphasized that Veterans Day should ultimately be about remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“I am no hero,” he said. “The heroes are the ones that haven't made it back.”

He encouraged younger generations to consider military service, calling it both a privilege and a responsibility.

“The ability to serve is a right, and it is a privilege,” Hopkins said. “To honor your country in active service means more than anything that a person could ever be.”

While many people greet veterans with a "Happy Veterans Day," Hopkins said he views the day differently.

“I really don't like saying ‘Happy Veterans Day,’” he said. “It's a day of remembrance; there is nothing happy about it.”

Army veteran Gary Garant, who served three years in the Army, said seeing residents turn out to support veterans was encouraging.

“It feels good to see all the people out here, supportive of veterans,” Garant said.

He said his military experience helped shape the course of his life and gave him confidence to pursue opportunities he may not otherwise have considered.

“It gave me the confidence to reach out and do better things than I thought I could,” Garant said.

Like many veterans, Garant said Veterans Day brings memories of friends and fellow service members.

“It's a strong memory-maker because I lost friends and relatives and saw a lot of difficult and challenging things,” he said. “It's good, too, this time of year, to give them those thoughts.”

Army veteran Jim Michael, who was drafted and served 22 months and 10 days during the Vietnam War era, participated in the parade alongside fellow veterans.

“Like every year, it's good,” Michael said of the event.

Michael reflected on how attitudes toward veterans have changed since he returned home from service.

“When I got back from Nam, the sentiments and the way things were, I was distressed,” he said. “A lot has changed.”

Seeing today's veterans receive support from their communities is welcome, he added.

“I guess it's finally due,” Michael said. “It's good.”

He said Veterans Day is also a reminder to appreciate the opportunities and freedoms many Americans enjoy.

“It troubles me that Americans are so unappreciative of all that we have,” Michael said. “Just be very thankful for all that we've got.”

For Army veteran Michael Dupuis, who recently moved to Ephrata, this year's parade was his first local Veterans Day celebration.

“It was kind of fun,” Dupuis said. “It's kind of neat to see the people come out. It's easy for veterans to come out here and march, but for the community to come out here and support, that's great.”

Dupuis said the day provides an opportunity to reflect on military service and those who gave everything for their country.

“It means just a reflection on people who have served and gave their ultimate (sacrifice) for their country,” he said.

Although he did not serve in combat, Dupuis said the support shown by residents was meaningful.

“Thanks for coming out and supporting everybody,” he said.

Throughout the morning, veterans shared stories, met fellow service members and accepted thanks from community members. While each veteran's experience was unique, a common theme emerged: gratitude for the community's support and remembrance of those who served before them.

As the parade concluded and veterans gathered for fellowship and a meal, many said the true meaning of Veterans Day remained unchanged, honoring service, remembering sacrifice and ensuring those contributions are never forgotten.

    Community members salute the American flag during the closing moments of Wednesday's Veterans Day ceremony in Ephrata.
  

    Military-style fire engines roll down Basin Street during the Veterans Day parade Wednesday. Fire districts from across Grant County joined veterans and community groups in the annual event. Fire districts included Grant County Fire Districts 4, 5, 6, 7 and 13 and the City of Ephrata.
  

    Veterans and their families enjoy a free meal at the Art Semro Post 28 American Legion following the Veterans Day parade.
  

    Art Semro Post 28 American Legion President Mike Montaney (far left) speaks with members of the color guard before Wednesday's Veterans Day parade in downtown Ephrata.
  

    Veterans march through downtown Ephrata during Wednesday's Veterans Day parade. During the parade, participants gathered at the Ephrata Recreation Center for a 21-gun salute, the playing of taps and a remembrance ceremony honoring those who served.
  

    Spectators place their hands over their hearts as veterans pass by during Wednesday's Veterans Day parade in Ephrata.