Veterans Day: A Photo Essay

Inclement weather forced ODU's Veterans Day program to move inside Webb Center last Thursday, but the day's morning rain could not put a damper on the observance. The event offered an opportunity for members of the campus community to pay tribute to the thousands of U.S. military veterans who have served their country in combat and peacekeeping functions around the world.

Approximately 23 percent of ODU's more than 25,000 students have a direct connection to the military, either by having served themselves or being the parent or child of service members.

Retired U.S. Navy Vice Adm. David Architzel, military affairs director at ODU, served as master of ceremonies for the program. President John R. Broderick and three ODU students also were among the speakers.

Photos by Chuck Thomas

Vice Adm. David Architzel, military affairs director at ODU, served as master of ceremonies for the program.

In his remarks, President Broderick noted that within the ODU military-related population, there are some 2,600 veterans, placing the university in the top 10 among academic institutions hosting former military personnel.

Michael Thompson, a member of the Student Veterans Association, was one of three students to speak about what Veterans Day means to them. Thompson focused on a principle passed down by his grandfather, who was in the Battle of the Bulge during World War II.

Folding the flag.

This year marked the start of a new tradition for the Old Glory Flag Ceremony. Each year now, a different academic college from the university will be chosen to select a veteran student, faculty or staff member to receive the nation’s colors. This year’s honored guest, selected by the College of Arts and Letters, was retired Chief Petty Officer Robert Gay. A 21-year Navy veteran, he is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in history and a minor in religious studies. The passing of the flag honors all those who have served or fallen in defense of the United States. The flag presented at the ceremony was donated by the NROTC chapter of the ODU Alumni Association.

Members of the Army ROTC listen to the presentations at the ceremony.