Dean Jane Bray sent the following message to the Darden College of Education and Professional Studies faculty and staff community on November 9, 2018. - Ed.
Dear Faculty and Staff,
November is an important month for all of us as we recognize the significant impact of the armed forces and the diversity of its individuals. All around the Old Dominion University campus - and within our college - you have engaged with faculty, staff, and students who are both veterans and active duty members of the military.
This Veterans Day, I invite you to learn more about a few students in the Darden College of Education and Professional Studies who are veterans. Each student has a unique background and personal journey that has led them to Darden College. One example is Chris Parker, an Army veteran who participated in various campaigns overseas, engaging members of the Taliban. His decorations include the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Parachutist Badge. You may read and learn more about these students online at "Honoring Our Veterans."
I would like to end on a more personal note. Veterans Day holds a special place in my heart. My uncle, Arthur Giobbi, was killed in Germany on March 6, 1945. His father was presented the Silver Star for his son's action to expose his M-7 to point-blank fire from enemy tanks in order for his column to pass through the town of Oberstadfeld. This summer, I had the honor of visiting the Luxembourg American Cemetery where my uncle is buried, along with 5,000 additional service members.
To all the veterans in the Darden College of Education and Professional Studies - thank you. Thank you for your courage, strength, devotion to duty, sacrifice and commitment to protecting our freedoms.
With gratitude for your sacrifice and service,
Dr. Jane S. Bray