Honoring veterans around the state

Bridgeport (WTNH) - Veterans Day serves as a time of reflection to honor those who have served, or are currently serving, our country. Around Connecticut, people took the day to thank and listen to those who have given us our freedom.

Along the shore in West Haven, a couple hundred people gathered with veterans and city officials to honor veterans past and present.

A large flag was brought in by a police color guard and was raised to full staff before being lowered to its customary half-staff position today.

Meanwhile, construction workers in Griswold spent this Veterans Day helping out a soldier's family.

Roofers and landscapers fixed up the home of an Army Reservist who will soon be on his way to Afghanistan.

Associated Builders and Contractors of Connecticut organized the effort as part of its 'Open Shop Salute' community service program.

The workers cut hedges, cleaned up the yard, and repaired the family's roof.

"The families are missing their loved ones who are shipped over seas by our government and it's something that's needed. He's not gonna be here to take care of his house," said Vince Atwater-Young of G. Donovan.

The builders and contractors began this program to help service men and women last January.

In Bridgeport, the Park City held its annual parade and also dedicated a new monument to Veterans of the Korean War; it added to the park which is already the home to monuments honoring those who served in World War's I/II and the Vietnam War.

One of the city's most distinguished veterans spoke about the courage of his comrades.

"Today is a time to reflect on all that has been done by our veterans. Today is a time to reflect on all the sacrifices made and to be thankful for the loyalty and determination of these men and women," said Commander Walter Stachacz of the Catholic War Veterans.

"Don't wait until Veterans Day to thank a veteran," Bridgeport Mayor Bill Finch said. "If you know one, thank them out of the blue someday."

The new monument cost $85,000. And, the city is selling space on bricks throughout the park to help defray the costs.