Saturday was a very special day for anyone involved in World War II. Thousands of veterans gathered on the National Mall for the dedication of the National World War II monument.

The WWII monument is located between the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument. World War II veteran and former Sen. Bob Dole talked to the huge crowd. Dole was an important supporter and an instrumental part of raising funds for the $174 million dollar project.

Those World War II veterans that couldn't attend this ceremony in Washington were honored in Belvidere. The American Legion Post 77 held a celebration to tie into the memorial dedication in Washington.

Belvidere Mayor Fred Brereton handed out an award to local World War II veterans.