The Ottumwa community is honoring those who have served the country this Veterans Day.

Veterans were were honored at American Legion Post 3 in Ottumwa.

One lucky veteran would receive the Wapello County Veteran of the Year title for his hard work and dedication to the community.

The 2021 Wapello County Veteran of the Year was awarded to Post 775 Commander Gary Frederick by director of Veteran Affairs Terry Bradley.

“This person does so much for our veterans, he always gives 100 percent when asked of him. He certainly doesn’t hesitate to jump in," said Bradley.

Colonel in the Army National Guard and Davis County Community Schools Superintendent Dan Maeder was the featured speaker at the event.

“You got all of these veterans that have done great things and service members that give on a regular basis. Anyone that rises to that level of service and is honored amongst other people that provide service is terrific," said Maeder. "You can’t be honored for much greater things than serving others.”

WW2 veteran Nolan Miller was also in attendance. Miller was part of the Navy Construction Battalion known as Seabees.

“Its an honor to be here it’s all about I can say. It means a lot," said Miller.

This Veteran’s Day, Dan Maeder would like to remind everyone to include service members families in their thoughts as well.

“I just want to ask to everyone to not only think about veterans and other service members but think about their families. Our family members are sacrificing and have sacrificed along with us," said Maeder.