HAWAII STATE VETERANS CEMETERY, Hawaii – American veterans were honored and celebrated for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good during the 2015 Governor’s Veterans Day Ceremony at the Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery, Nov. 11.

The event included a conch shell presentation and chant performed by Kahu Manu Mook, a parade of flags and a presentation of floral leis, the posting of colors executed by members of the Joint Service Color Guard and Ceremonial Guard, and an invocation given by Kahu Kekapa Lee of the First Chinese Church of Christ.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Arthur J. Logan, the adjutant general of the state of Hawaii, provided welcoming remarks during the ceremony before Shan Tsutsui, lieutenant governor of the state of Hawaii, delivered the Veterans Day address where he spoke about his appreciation of the sacrifices that veterans make.

“Today, let us promise never to forget the magnitude of their sacrifices and to remain ever grateful, for the debt we owe can never be repaid,” Tsutsui said. “Words can’t adequately express the appreciation and gratitude the people of Hawaii have for our courageous members of our military, their families and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.”

Tsutsui placed the State of Hawaii’s wreath alongside Logan and Brian Schatz, senior United States senator of Hawaii, to help honor veterans who served before us and who still serve today. U.S. Navy Adm. Harry Harris, commander of U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM), placed a military wreath with leaders of PACOM and the U.S. Coast Guard to also show respect during the ceremony.

“To our fallen soldiers and their families and friends, thank you for your sacrifices,” Tsutsui said. “Our thoughts and prayers remain with you all. We’ll remember always with honor and respect.”