As everyone across the nation honored their veterans who served Sunday, Brooke County residents gathered for the dedication of the Veterans Memorial at Brooke Hills Park.

"(It’s a) great honor. My father flew in the B-17 bombers in World War II. I recently lost him, and it's a big honor for me to be here and see the dedication," said Paul Misch, of Follansbee.

A few people guided the wreath to its place at the memorial while others looked on. It took almost a decade to build after 21-year-old Michael Jay Smith Jr., a U.S. Marine, died in Iraq in 2004.

"He'd be proud to see what they've done. He'd be looking over his children," said Michael Smith, Sr. about his son.

The emotions were high for many here as one in 10 West Virginians is a veteran.

"It's been an honor, and with all the people showing up, it's fantastic ceremonies," said Eugene Misch, whose father served in WWII.

Those at the ceremony said they want others to reflect on the day and remember the names on the memorial wall.            .

"All the fallen soldiers that gave their life for this country, that's the main thing … and the ones that served, lived long lives after that. But just remember all the veterans," said Misch.