WINCHENDON – More than 100 people filled the chapel at Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Saturday to honor the men and women who have served in the Armed Forces over the course of the nation’s history.

The crowd was welcomed by the cemetery’s administrative officer, Adam LeBlanc. He asked that, in addition to the veterans for which the day is dedicated, those in attendance remember those on active duty around the globe. Lead Park Foreman Daniel Kuchta performed the POW/MIA candle lighting, and was followed by Father Francis Roberge of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Templeton, who offered the invocation.

Father Roberge asked for blessings on all the men and women who have served, imploring that those who may be suffering be healed in body, mind and spirit. He prayed that peace will prevail in those regions of the world where they have served.

Gov. Maura Healey’s proclamation declaring Saturday, Nov. 11, as Veterans Day in Massachusetts was read by Dr. Coral Grout, third vice president of the American Legion Auxiliary.

State Rep. Jon Zlotnik asked that the nation remember those who served in World War II. He noted that, of the approximately 16 million who fought in the military during the global conflict, only about 100,000 are alive today.

“It’s important to reflect on their memory,” said Zlotnik. “It took valor to go, not knowing for sure if they would win. Imagine the courage it took to sign up. So much depended on their courage and commitment. But they believed in America. We should take stock in what those Americans did. Those of us alive today benefit from what they did.”

Rick Ward, Air Force veteran and vice chair of the Winchendon Selectboard, took a moment to remember “the World War II and Korean War veterans at rest in this cemetery, this place of honor.” They were, he said, mentors during his childhood years in the town.

“There are also a growing number of veterans resting here who served during the Vietnam War era – many friends, relatives and high school classmates,” Ward said. “Seeing their names carved in stone brings back fond memories of them, and immense pride in their service, and sadness…sadness that though they now rest in this place of honor, dignity, and respect, many were not told how much their service meant to the country while they were still with us. We thank our Vietnam Era vets for their service.”

Serving, said Ward, meant “all would be required to leave family and friends, leave their hometowns, and put civilian lives and aspirations on hold for two, four or more years. For some it would mean the horrors of combat in Europe, the Pacific, Korea, the jungles of Vietnam, the deserts of Iraq, or the rugged terrain of Afghanistan. Many would suffer unimaginable injuries, shell shock, PTSD…and some would make the supreme sacrifice.”

Greg Vine can be reached at gvineadn@gmail.com.