The George Washington University, the Office of Military and Veteran Student Services and GW Veterans have lined up a week’s worth of events for the GW community to honor veteran and military students, faculty and staff.
“President Dwight D. Eisenhower gave the first Veterans Day proclamation in 1954 inviting all Americans to ‘join hands in common purpose’ and ensure the observance of a day dedicated to veterans,” said Victoria Pridemore, associate director of military and veteran student services. “At GW we hold on to this tradition by honoring all those who served and celebrating the diversity of our campus though numerous activities. We invite all students, faculty and staff to join us at any or all of the events held between Nov. 6 and Nov. 11."
Activities scheduled for this week include a letter-writing campaign for deployed troops Wednesday on Kogan Plaza from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday’s GW Veterans’ Art Show; and the men’s basketball game against Howard University, featuring a “Vets vs. Cadets” halftime exhibition, Saturday at 7 p.m.
Command Sgt. Maj. Tom Satterly, on whose team the Oscar-winning film “Black Hawk Down” was based, will speak Tuesday at 6 p.m. in Marvin Center Room 403. Mr. Satterly is an advocate for veterans on issues including post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide prevention.
The week’s keystone event is the traditional wreath-laying ceremony, to be held on Kogan Plaza Friday at 10 a.m. Speakers will include George Washington President Thomas LeBlanc.
GW continued its commitment to military and veteran students by expanding its Yellow Ribbon Program benefits last June. The university has been named a “Best for Vets” university by Military Times since 2010 and has been listed among G.I. Jobs’ “Military-Friendly” institutions since 2009.