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MILTON — Milton residents braved an unseasonable chill in the air to honor veterans at Veterans Park in Milton Tuesday.

Mayor Eric Stockman, who organized the program, said it’s always great to have this event, as it’s an opportunity to reflect and show gratitude for those who served in the military.

“This day means so much to me being a veteran, but it means so much to our city. I think the city of Milton is extremely supportive of our veterans, and we always come out regardless of the weather, whether it’s cold or hot, to support our veterans,� Stockman said.

Stockman is a veteran himself who served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He invited Ret. First Sgt. Chad Olson to speak at the program. Olson is a friend of Stockman’s, and grew up in Milton.

Olson, a Milton High School graduate of the Class of 1994, was a U.S. Marine. Olson was assigned supply administration but volunteered for First Surveillance Reconnaissance Intelligence Group. He was selected for First Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company. He earned Navy/Marine Corps Parachutist Gold Wings. He served as a forward observer, directing naval gunfire and close air support.

Olson entered the Wisconsin Army National Guard in 1998. He spent 19 years with the 132nd Support Battalion and became a first sergeant. He was deployed twice, once from 2005 to 2006 and again from 2009 to 2010 with the 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team. He provided armed airport security post 9/11.

Olson earned the Navy Achievement Medal after a tour in Iwakuni, Japan. He earned Good Conduct medals in each branch of service, two Meritorious Service Medals, four Army Commendation Medals and six Army Achievement Medals. He also received recognition as a combat pistol instructor and Master Gunner.

Stockman said Olson understands the meaning of sacrifice, the power of community and importance of our country.

Olson said that he considered talking about the transition from Armistice Day to Veterans Day, but spoke about 22 A Day, which is a movement to provide awareness about military suicide. According to a 2012 report from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 22 veterans succumb to post-traumatic stress in the U.S. daily.

“Everyone of us has an opportunity to reach out, make a phone call to somebody to say, ‘I’m thinking of you,’� Olson said. “Twenty-two a day, that is 22 people yesterday.�

Olson is also a member of the Janesville chapter of the Combat Veterans 45-9, which raises money for veterans.

There was a 21 Gun Salute from the US Marines of Recruiting Substation Madison and Recruiting Station Janesville. The program concluded with Eli Bilhorn playing Taps.

The program was unaffiliated with the city government.