Illinois veterans gather at State Fair for annual Veterans Day celebration

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Veterans from across Illinois gathered at the Illinois State Fair Sunday afternoon for a Veterans Day celebration and the turnout showed just how much the event means to those who served.

The celebration gives veterans a chance to come together and share in their common bond.

"We need to gather veterans together to allow them to talk to each other to have fellowship with each other," said Anthony Vaughn, Assistant Director of the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs. "Fellowship within our community is very important."

Throughout the event, speeches and military presentations honored the service and sacrifice of Illinois veterans.

Vaughn took the stage and praised the veterans for their dedication to this country.

"Whether you served at home or abroad you represented those who relied on your service to protect their rights and to be treated equally," said Vaughn.

Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher also made an appearance delivering a speech and calling on community members to show their appreciation for veterans every chance they get.

"If you're not a veteran every time you see someone wearing something that represents their service, please thank them," said Mayor Buscher. "Sometimes veterans go underappreciated and we need to make sure they know how thankful we are for them."

This annual celebration has been a state fair tradition for decades and Vaughn says he expects it to continue for generations to come.

"This event has been going on for the 20 years that I've been involved and it will go on for the next 250 years of our nation," said Vaughn.

The Illinois State Fair continues through August 23rd in Springfield. For a full schedule of events and ticket information, visit the Illinois State Fair's website.