Howard Pratt of Libertyville says his recollections of Veterans Day go back to the time when it was called Armistice Day. "My Dad was in the trenches in France during World War I. So on Veterans Day I'm even more proud to know that I served."

Harry Swanson of Grayslake says that people thank him for being in the service whenever he wears his WWII cap. "It's a great feeling" said Swanson while sitting around the Libertyville American Legion Post. | Rob Dicker~Sun-Times Media.

Al Proia of Vernon Hills and a friend shopped around the different branches of service until settling on the Air Force. After basic training he was sent to Texas for special training, and then was assigned to staff Strategic Air Command.

"It makes me feel proud that I was able to be in the service," said Norman Arnswald of Mundelein when asked what Veterans Day means to him. | Rob Dicker~Sun-Times Media

"I have the utmost respect for those who were in combat and especially those who were hurt, " said Jim Jones of Grayslake when asked about his thoughts on the importance of Veterans Day. | Rob Dicker~Sun-Times Media

Jim Jones of Grayslake finished high school and decided it would be best to sign up in the Air Corps cadet program. He wanted to fly, but he was told he was better suited dealing with explosives.

Harry Swanson of Grayslake enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1944, and he was inducted in 1945 at Fort Sheridan. After spending seven weeks in basic training, he came down with an illness. | Rob Dicker~Sun-Times Media

"Unlike so many Americans, I really appreciate all the young men and women who have fought for our country. Was fortunate not to have seen any sort of combat situation, but I definitely appreciate all those who were," said Al Proia of Vernon Hills. | Rob

Howard Pratt of Libertyville was in college in 1952 when he realized that it was far safer for him to enlist in the Air Force than get drafted and wind up in a foxhole in Korea. | Rob Dicker~Sun-Times Media

Norman Arnswald of Mundelein enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1943, right out of high school. First training as a bomber pilot for the European front, he completed his training as that part of the war ended. | Rob Dicker~Sun-Times Media