VIDEO: Proud American Days Adds a Veterans Memorial

In the Home of Proud Americans, honoring veterans is just second nature. There's the Veterans Memorial on the Commons, the Loyalty Day Parade, and a couple ceremonies this year, on Veterans Day and the Fourth of July, that remembered those who have fought for the country.

On Sunday, New Lenox's village nickname lent itself to another veterans memorial during the Park District's Proud American Days celebration.

"The Park District realizes the sacrifices all branches have made to this country, and we applaud your efforts," said Lauren Lotz of the park district.

At the brief ceremony, the honor guard from the local VFW Post 9545 and American Legion Post 1977 presented the colors, and resident Vicky Vargas belted the National Anthem (see the video above). Veterans also stood during the service when their military branch's official song was played.

"It’s my pleasure to be here today and any time we get the opportunity to say thank you and pay respect to the members of the military," Mayor Tim Baldermann said.