Locals pay respects on Veterans Day

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Residents across South Florida honored our nation's heroes.

In Miami, Monday morning, Miami Police and Firefighters are marking Veterans' Day by marching in honor of our fallen heroes. Walking alongside 30 veterans, the City of Miami's Police and Fire departments took over Coconut Grove. The event began outside the Christ Episcopal Church along Hibiscus Street and continued onto Franklin Avenue, ending at the Coconut Grove Historical Cemetery.

Attendees there prayed for the veterans buried in the cemetery. "Well, to me, I'd like to pay respect to all the fallen soldiers," said James W. Sans, a World War II veteran, "even my father who was a World War I veteran. I'd like to pay respect and honor to all of them."

"It feels good it feels," said Ivan Chavez, a soldier in the U.S. Army, "like the nation is grateful for our service and all the sacrifices our family members made."

The marchers returned to the church for food and refreshments.

A Veterans' Day Parade and wreath laying ceremony took place Sunday on Miami Beach. The U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team even stopped by Flamingo Park for the ceremony.

Fort Lauderdale also held ceremonies, over the weekend, including the Wall of Honor on Riverwalk. The families of three fallen soldiers each presented their loved ones with a ceremonial brick.

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