“The greatest national debt is that which America owes to its veterans,” said Selectmen Chair Paul Silva. “That debt can never be repaid.”

It was a statement felt throughout the morning at Old Hammondtown Elementary School during the annual Veterans Day ceremonies, which included music from the school’s choir and orchestra and guest speakers Rep. William Straus and Commander Robert Harrill of the United States Navy.

The Mattapoisett Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts also stood holding antique American flags.

“President Kennedy once said, ‘The purpose of war is peace,’” said Straus. “In order to have peace, we ask young people to risk and sacrifice everything. It is a modest request to ask that we take time out for these veterans to say thank you. That is what today is all about.”

Cmdr. Harrill, who is on staff at the Newport Naval War College, also spoke of the importance of thanking veterans, but not just by the waving of flags or holding parades.

“The best way to honor a veterans is simply to talk with them,” Harrill said. “Visit a senior center. Spend time with them. Let them know you’re thankful and interested in their stories. Pay it forward, today and everyday.”