BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Western Kentucky University honored Veterans Day with a special wreath laying ceremony.

The ceremony occurred at the Guthrie Bell Tower on WKU’s campus.

Veterans Day was started in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson, to celebrate the U.S. and its allies after winning World War I. It was originally called Armistice Day but was changed in 1954 to recognize all members of the military.

WKU President Timothy Caboni said, “On behalf of all of us here today, and behalf of all of our nation, thank you. We’re grateful for your selflessness, your boldness and your valor.”

Each year, WKU hosts a ceremony to recognize veterans and WKU ROTC cadets and soldiers who have served or are currently serving.

Lt. Col. Tony Struzik served in the U.S. Army and is currently the department chair and professor of military science at WKU. He said, “The fact that they take time out of their day and the President takes time out of his schedule to honor all veterans, I think really speaks well to how much this community loves and honors all veterans.”

A wreath was placed at the tower to honor veterans who have died.

Struzik said, “Veterans Day is for all who have served this country and does a great job of remembering and signifying the importance of service of all men and women who have stood in defense of the United States of America.”