Wall of Honor for Women in Uniform unveiled

Lamar University has unveiled a new permanent tribute to women in uniform-military veterans and first responders-with the dedication of the Wall of Honor. Located on the second floor of the Maes Building on the LU campus, the wall serves as a lasting reminder of the service and sacrifice of women who have served, both past and present.

Dr. Margot Gage, assistant professor of sociology, expressed her gratitude for everyone involved in bringing the Wall of Honor to fruition.

"I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for everyone who has walked with me on this journey since the very beginning," Gage said. "I am truly grateful for each and every one of you, especially Ms. Mary Williams. She was one of the first female veterans to stand by my side consistently. I also want to recognize the community members-both veterans and first responders-who courageously gave their portraits, along with the photographer who beautifully captured these images and connected with each woman. Their work helped bring my vision to life."

Gage recalled the early challenges of the project, including the original idea of creating a park to honor women in uniform.

"In the early days, Mayor Becky Ames was incredibly supportive, along with Evelyn Lord, Beaumont's first female mayor, who joined us for those first steps," Gage said. "I initially dreamed of creating a park to honor these women, but funding proved a major challenge. While that didn't work out, we ultimately found a home for the Wall of Honor. This space matters because it represents everyone who helped make it possible, along with the support from higher-ups who gave it a permanent home."

The Wall of Honor is displayed in Lamar University's Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Criminal Justice, the only department on campus offering degrees that connect directly with the experiences of female veterans and first responders.

"Our faculty is unique on campus as the only department offering degrees in social work, sociology, criminal justice, and anthropology-fields that deeply connect with the experiences of female veterans and first responders," Gage said. "This wall honors that bond, creating a space for these women to be recognized. It's incredibly meaningful to have a permanent place where this tribute can be housed, so people can see that 'she served too.'"

Interim Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Rebecca Boone, praised the project's impact on the university community.

"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr. Gage for providing us with this incredible source of moral beauty and inspiration," Boone said. "It's something that every student, faculty member, and visitor to the university can see, engage with, and be inspired by, especially those who are veterans. Thank you for bringing this to our community-it truly helps us grow into a stronger, better university."

Mayor Roy West also expressed his support for the Wall of Honor, emphasizing its importance in recognizing the contributions of women in uniform.

"It is with great pleasure that we congratulate you on this project at Lamar University," West said. "In collaboration with the Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Criminal Justice, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the Division of Strategic Initiatives, a space has been created that will stand as a lasting tribute to the trailblazing women whose service and dedication inspire us all. Thank you, and thank you for your service."

The Wall of Honor stands as a visible reminder of the vital role of women in military and first responder service, honoring their sacrifices and inspiring future generations.

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