Today we will honor and
celebrate America’s veterans for their patriotism, service, and
sacrifice on behalf of our country. I am honored to be a part of
Virginia Wesleyan’s Veterans Day observance, which will take place this
afternoon at 1:30 p.m. in the Pearce Hospitality Suite in the Jane P.
Batten Student Center.
The ceremony will include keynote remarks
from Virginia Wesleyan alumnus Ron Stebbins ’92, who retired from the
United States Navy in 2010 after 31 years of service. During his career,
Mr. Stebbins served in multiple combat environments and a variety of
staff assignments. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy
and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement
Medal, and various unit and personal awards.
Cory Franklin ’20,
United States Marine Corps (Retired), will offer an introduction,
followed by the entrance of the Army ROTC Detachment Color Guard. The
ceremony will also feature performances by the Virginia Wesleyan Chorale
and prayer by University Chaplain Greg West. A collection of photos
will celebrate the service of Marlin veterans and active-duty service
members.
If you have not yet had the chance, I encourage you to
visit the Military Honor Tree on display this week in the Jane P. Batten
Student Center. Students, faculty and staff are invited to place
colorful ribbons on the tree, which serve as a tribute to our troops and
symbolize tremendous gratitude to those who have served our country.
Veterans
and active-duty service members play a unique role in the life of
Virginia Wesleyan University and inspire our campus community. They are
hidden heroes among us, contributing valuable insight and leadership
skills and enhancing the educational experience for those around them.
As an institution, it is important that we continue to serve our
military population. I am proud to report that Virginia Wesleyan has
been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a best college for veterans and has also repeatedly received the Military Friendly School designation by G.I. Jobs. We participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program and offer a full range of Veterans Support Services, from financial aid and early registration opportunities to counseling and career services.
Thank
you to the hundreds of Virginia Wesleyan University students, alumni,
faculty and staff who are veterans, active-duty military and reservists.
We are humbled by your sacrifices and indebted to you for your service.
