Niles veterans who need support are not alone.

With a number of organizations available to provide aid and fellowship, help is only a phone call away. This was only one important message that was emphasized Saturday as more than 20 people braved the cold for a Veterans Day service in Riverfront Park.

The event was organized by Odie Stewart, the vice commander for the American Legion Post 26. Stewart opened the event by reminding attendees why they chose to brave the frigid weather that morning.

“Today, we are here not to forget,” Stewart said.

From World War II to the Iraq War, there were a variety of veterans representing multiple eras Saturday as they huddled in a circle.

Among them was Marine veteran Don Kennedy, of Niles, who spoke candidly about the help he needed when returning from duty.

Kennedy served two tours in Iraq as an infantry machine gunner for “Operation Iraqi Freedom.” When he returned from duty, transition to civilian life proved difficult.

“You feel like you are on your own,” Kennedy said. “Whereas, when I was in the Marines, my brothers from the Marines were there to support me.”

As he faced the crowd Saturday, Kennedy invited other veterans who may be hurting to reach out to their local veteran’s services.

“Today on Veterans Day, the message I would relay is one that I would want to carry forward,” Kennedy said. “It took me 12 years to figure out that I wasn’t alone. It took me 12 years to figure out that I wasn’t unique and to really start dealing with some stuff that I hadn’t dealt with.”

Kennedy emphasized the importance of standing together as veterans and reaching out for help when needed.

“We need to be strong for one another and support one another,” Kennedy said.

Following Kennedy’s speech, Niles High School student Kara West sang the national anthem, as those in attendance saluted the flag.

The attendees also paid their respects during a playing of the taps, performed by Niles High School student Ozzy Moreno.

Standing in the crowd, Vietnam veteran Ken Wolf said he was moved by the ceremony.

“I got a lot out of it just by honoring our veterans,” Wolf said. “It was humbling.”

As the crowd dispersed after the ceremony, Stewart said he was happy with the turnout.

“The worst thing in the world is to be forgotten,” Stewart said.

Stewart intends to host regular echo taps ceremonies on the St. Joseph River and also mentioned potential plans to rededicate the veterans’ memorial in Riverfront Park.

American Legion Commander Bob Ahrens encouraged veterans to reach out to the American Legion or any veteran service.

“They are always welcome,” Ahrens said. “We don’t care what conflict they fought in.”