Eastern commends service members at annual Veterans Day ceremony

Eastern Connecticut State University held its annual Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11 to recognize students, staff and local veterans for their military service. The event, which was held in the Student Center, invited members of the community to honor the sacrifices and commitment of veterans.

The ceremony commenced with a presentation of colors by local cadets, a performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" by Eastern's Concert Chorale and a reflection by the Rev. Paul Doyle of the Campus Ministry and First Congregational Church in Willimantic. Doyle opened by thanking veterans for their sacrifice and encouraging attendees to extend their gratitude to veterans throughout the year through support, healthcare advocacy and efforts to ensure their well-being.

"Let us remember the example of those who made so many sacrifices for the greater good, to be better in community and country," said Doyle. "May we give pause to the value of their service and let it inspire us to serve our veterans, one another and our communities."

Eastern President Karim Ismaili reflected on the role of veterans in both the University and the nation, acknowledging that the dedication and diligence they display in their service to the country influences their civilian peers.

"Veterans Day is a profound opportunity for our university community to reflect on the debt we owe to the many generations of veterans who have stepped forward to protect our freedoms and uphold the values we cherish as a nation," he said. "Your presence enriches our classrooms and broadens the perspectives of everyone around you, a true testament to the values this university upholds."

Brigadier General Ron Welch, commissioner of Connecticut Veterans Affairs and the event's keynote speaker, delivered an address highlighting his experiences in the military and honoring veterans' contributions. Being a highly decorated veteran himself and once wounded, he acknowledged that not all service members have seen combat but all who have served have displayed equal commitment and patriotism.

"You don't get to choose what wars you serve in, but everyone who has been in uniform raised their right hand and swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution against all enemies, both foreign and domestic," said Welch. "Those who served, those who sacrificed - they gave their all 24/7 so millions around the world could experience the freedoms we enjoy every day in our country, the greatest country in the world."

Sgt. Julian Brown closed the ceremony by acknowledging the service members and their families and encouraging the attendees to thank veterans for their service. He invited everyone to participate in a "holiday military challenge" by writing holiday cards to send to service members and veterans as a gesture of gratitude.

"Thank you to you and your families for your sacrifice, your bravery and the example you set for us all," he said. "I encourage everyone here today to take a moment to participate in this important effort (writing holiday cards). It's a small gesture that can make a big difference to those who have served our country."