By Megan Boatwright, Local News 8 Reporter

It was the first celebration of its kind in Rexburg Wednesday.  Hundreds showed up for the ‘Veteran's Day Celebration’ at Smith Park. 

“I really enjoyed it,” said Madison High School Senior, Titan Sweetin.  “There are so many people that don't understand what Veteran's Day means.”    

The crowd overflowed with young faces.  “Our whole school did get out to pay tribute,” said junior, Mindy Barrick.     

As much as Veteran's Day tributes are important for young people, they're even more memorable for servicemen. 

“It brings back many memories and emotions,” said Panama Conflict vet, J.D. West.    

West and Vietnam War veteran, Willlis Kortright, remember a time when supporting the troops was a controversial political move in America.  

“During the Vietnam War this country was divided,” Kortright said.  “Half the country supported us while the other half protested and called us ‘baby killers’.”   

Both veterans are happy to acknowledge just how much things have changed.  “In the past 15 years people in this country have given veterans such love and support,” West said.    

“9/11 brought the country back together,” Kortright said.    

The Rexburg Chamber of Commerce sponsored the ‘Veteran's Day Celebration’ tribute.  They plan to make it an annual event.