GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Labor Day is a day meant to celebrate the hard labor of the American worker, and the nation's labor movement that led to better working conditions.

This year, many people in downtown Grand Rapids honored the labor of America's veterans.

"Kind of looking at honoring soldiers who have done the heavy lifting, along with every other man and woman in America that has built this country," said Mick Vondoxtater, as he waited with his dog, Princess, on the south side of Pearl Street in anticipation of what was to come.

As Tuesday marks 80 years since the end of World War II, those gathered recognized the labor and sacrifice of those who fought for their freedom - members of what has been called the 'Greatest Generation.'

And what were they waiting for? With American

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