ROCKFORD — Celebrations marking Veterans Day took place across the country Wednesday, including in Rockford. Despite the growing number of positive COVID-19 cases in the county, the Vietnam Veterans Honor Society hosted their 15th annual Veterans Day service.

“The war didn’t get in the way,” said Nick Parnello, the organization’s president, who served in the U.S. Army as a sergeant. “We had to go fight and die, so we’re here today to remember and honor our veterans.”

A group no larger than 50 gathered outdoors Wednesday morning at the LZ Peace Memorial, located at 6799 Guilford Road, to pay tribute to military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Attendance has varied each year, Parnello said, but it’s not about the quantity.

“We always say if there are two vets, that’s great, but we had a good turnout and we’re very grateful for the people who showed up,” he said.