Arlington Cemetery Wreath-laying

As the president observed Veterans Day half a world away in South Korea, political enemies came together at Arlington National Cemetery to honor veterans of American wars.

Vice President Joe Biden and Incoming House Speaker John Boehner both lauded expanded VA and veterans' employment services, which come in the midst of a growing pro-austerity sentiment evidenced by Boehner and the GOP's resurgance.

"Ladies and gentlemen, it's an obligation that the president and I and the soon-to-be Speaker are fully committed to fulfilling…and it's an obligation I hope every leader that comes after us understands as well," Biden said.

The wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns was followed by a ceremony at the Memorial Amphitheatre, just steps away. According to some attendees, sparser crowds and fairer weather than last year made the event comparatively more enjoyable, despite the absence of the President.