SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — November 11th is a day we pause as a nation to remember and honor our veterans who have made tremendous sacrifices for our freedoms, many who paid the ultimate price.The Military Heritage Alliance in Sioux Falls held a special ceremony, where veterans from all branches of the military were thanked and saluted.

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From songs to salutes, veterans took center stage at the Military Heritage Alliance as they were thanked for serving our country.

Sioux Falls Mayor Paul Tenhaken was one of the guest speakers.

“I don’t think a lot of people fully appreciate and can comprehend what true freedom means and how fragile that is, and how we have to fight for that and we have to deploy and we have to enlist and we have to honor those who have helped us keep those freedoms,” Sioux Falls Mayor Paul Tenhaken said.

Tenhaken says he took an oath to serve our city, but it pales in comparison to those who took an oath to wear the uniform and are willing to die for our country.

“I will tell you the men and women who have decided to serve and enlist that’s a very real possibility and we don’t take that lightly at all,” Tenhaken said.

Governor Kristi Noem spoke about the history of our nation and how the men and women fought for freedom back in those days and that fight continues today.

“Our kids are our future and they need to know what this country is what the past was and what they’re continuing to fight for going forward,” Noem said.

Noem echoed what the mayor said.

“We don’t get asked every day to pledge our lives and our fortunes and our sacred honor but our men and women of our military do,” Noem said.

And she says that’s why everyone should continue to honor veterans not only today, but every day.

“We are incredibly grateful for you and may God Bless you and continue to bless the United States of America,” Noem said.