Veterans of the Armed Forces will be honored for defending their country and allowing its people to live with freedom at a Veteran’s Day Ceremony today.

The whole purpose is to recognize that we are able to live freely today because of the veterans, Barry Cheyne Air Force ROTC Commandant of Cadets said. They (the veterans) have allowed our country to prosper and maintain freedom. In a small way, it gives them recognition for their service to the country.

Cheyne said three guest speakers will honor U.S. Veterans at the event. They are E.B. Benny Dunn, World War II veteran and retired school superintendent; James Scales, director of University Career Services, speaking on behalf of the University, and Mark Terry, Graduate and Professional Student Council Vice-President, speaking on behalf of SIUC student government.

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Carbondale Mayor Neil Dillard will present a proclamation of recognition to the veterans, Cheyne said.

It’s a proclamation that recognizes the dedication of the members of the Armed Forces, past and present, he said. It also declares Nov. 10 as Veteran’s recognition day in Carbondale.

Cheyne said, the Air Force and Army ROTC units will have a formation by the flagpole to participate in a cannonade. During the cannonade, volley’s of fire representing Duty, Honor and Country will be let off.

In concluding the ceremony, the Veterans Club will lay a wreath at the flagpole in honor of all vets, the Army and Air Force will retire the colors and take down the flag and a 21-gun salute by the Air Force will be the ceremony finale, Cheyne said.

Cheyne said about 100 ROTC cadets are scheduled to participate in the ceremony.

The 3 p.m. ceremony at the Old Main flagpole is sponsored by SIUC Student Affairs.