SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A beautiful rendition of The National Anthem by Quentin Brackenridge left the room in chills. And that was only the start of the special Veteran's Day Ceremony put together by Lincoln Land Community College.

The ceremony featured the posting of the colors and the playing of taps.

Those words, "land of the free and home of the brave" speak loudly to student and former veteran, William Hudson. 

"Physical, mental, emotional, whatever it may be. Those things were, indeed, a sacrifice" says William.

William served in the U.S. Air Force, and now attends Lincoln Land majoring in business. He shared his story today, hoping to inspire the younger generation to "find their purpose" like he did, when he pushed himself to do something really hard. 

"I was put in charge of 300 trainees. I felt like a child trapped in a foreign world who had no clue what he was doing or where he was going" he shares.

Today, he shares invaluable lessons with Lincoln Land Community College through his time serving in the U.S. Air Force. 

"These men and women in uniform who stand with us here today, defined their purpose and deserve all the honor we can give. But now is a time to define your own purpose. Perhaps you'll be honored regardless. I'm sure you will surprise yourself. I know I did."

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