Students and community members gathered in front of the Fresno Memorial Auditorium Thursday to honor those who served in the U.S. military.

The memorial service began with a performance of “All Armed Forces Medley” by the Fresno State Chamber Singers featuring, pianist JoungMin Sur. ­

The Veterans Council, composed of campus organizations and programs such as the Student Veterans Organization, Omega Delta Sigma, Fresno State ROTC Bulldog Battalion and the Air Force ROTC Detachment 35, hosted the service. ­

Fresno State’s Army Reserve Officers conducted the Presentation of Colors supported by bagpiper Mark Little.

Guest speaker Lt. Gen. Michael W. Vane captured the spirit of Veterans Day. ­

“Veterans Day is a day to celebrate the peace we’ve achieved and therefore is appropriate, especially this year after a delicate election campaign, we can take advantage of this celebration,” said Vane. “We need to help teach and practice the ability to come together and develop a plan of action to execute missions that transcend political parties, race, sexual and religious preferences.”

Lt. Gen. Vane was honored by Associated Students, Inc. Vice President of Finances & CEO Brandon Sepulveda with a gift basket full of Fresno State spirit gear. ­

Following the ceremony, those in attending participated in a walk of honor as flags were marched from the Rose Garden to the Henry Madden Library.

Fresno Toys for Tots also kicked off its campaign with the placement of donation boxes labeled with a red train around campus. The organization will collect toys to ensure all children in Fresno County receive a toy this Christmas.

Upon its establishment, Veterans Day commemorated the armistice signed between the Allies and Germany that ended World War I. Today, the holiday honors veterans of all wars for the U.S. and the drive toward world peace.