Central New Yorkers get a head start on celebrating Veterans Day. Saturday, the CNY Veterans Expo and Parade was held at the NYS Fairgrounds, and as YNN's Erin Clarke tells us, people say the new venue makes it perfect for a family outing.

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NEW YORK STATE FAIRGROUNDS -- An Onondaga County celebration of veterans would go on this year without a hitch. It's the first year that the CNY Veterans Parade and Expo was held at the New York State Fairgrounds... the perfect place for a family event rain...or shine.

"We thought it was a wonderful opportunity for papa to introduce the grandkids to veterans affairs and Veterans Day," said Cazenovia resident, Larry Vandruff.

In the past Central New York weather has hampered the parade and made attendance low.
The switch to the fairgrounds offered an indoor space for veterans to show off, be recognized, and tell their stories.

Military members continue to tell stories of their past to make sure a new generation understands the sacrifices made for their lives to be what they are today.

"Every year my wife and I go to various schools and we talk about World War II. I have a lot of pictures, clothing," said World War II Veteran Ed Zaluski.

"People are sacrificing their lives for everybody's freedom of here, so I think it's just something that we should never forget," said 10th Mount Division Army Specialist, Joshua Rux.

A sentiment that parents and grandparents like Larry Vandruff share.

"We need to give honor to our veterans and all the respect that they're due from all the wars," said Vandruff.