The pouring rains followed by a light drizzle Monday morning wasn’t enough to discourage a few dozen folks from attending the Veterans Day ceremony at Manteca Library Park.

They sought refuge from the wet weather underneath the gazebo shelter, honoring those who served their country over the years.

Commander Jeff Aksland of the McFall-Grisham American Legion Post 249 praised those who showed up to the special event co-hosted by the local American Legion and the Jimmie Conners Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6311.

Just to be here for Veterans Day spoke volumes.

“There are many tangible ways (to honor military veterans) but the best is to say: ‘thank you for your services to our country,’” said Aksland, who served as masters of ceremonies.

Nov. 11, he mentioned, was originally known as Armistice Day, which was the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, honoring the ending of the “War to End All Wars” – the Great War or World War I.

“As we know, that was short lived,” Aksland said, noting that World War II was far deadlier than any war before or since.

Armistice Day eventually became Veterans Day in 1954 under President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who expanded the significance of the commemoration by paying homage to the veterans – all military branches – of all wars throughout U.S. history.

The East Union High JROTC color guards provided the presentation of the flags followed by Victor Kottenger delivering the invocation and Aksland leading in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mayor Gary Singh and Councilman Mike Morowit stopped by to present Aksland and the local American Legion with a certificate of recognition for “dedicated and support and service to veterans.”