Veterans Day Tribute

Veterans Day. This day serves as a day to not only remember those who are veterans for our country, but to commend them on their bravery, patriotism and their willingness to serve our country. I am proud to attend a university that holds such high regard for our veterans. Today, I was able to attend the Veterans Day ceremony that was held by the University of Washington. 

The ceremony was held in Memorial Way, the main street into UW and was held around the round about, which includes a memorial to armed service members in the middle of the round about. All of the different branches of the ROTC were stationed and represented around the memorial. 

Each branch of ROTC also had their colors represented and carried by one of the members within each group. 

Looking around the crowd, it was wonderful to see veterans still donning their service branch proudly. 

Opening remarks were done by Colonel Brent D. Bigger of the US Air Force. He delivered a speech that touched on so many of the great acts that individuals within ROTC and our veterans have done for our country. 

President Michael K. Young then took the podium shortly after Col. Bigger spoke and returned the podium to Col. Bigger for the presentation of colors. 

Multiple veterans were recognized for their service, but specifically, Dr. Richard Layton was recognized by President Young for the Distinguished Alumni Veteran Award. He served in the US Navy and received a medical degree from the University of Washington as one of their first few classes of graduates for the UW Medical School. During Dr. Layton's speech, he touched on the importance of taking care of family, friends and those around you.

President Young and Cpt. Daniel Boirum, an MBA graduate of the Foster School of Business, carried the wreath that was placed in the middle of Memorial Way to serve as a tribute for our veterans that concluded the ceremony.

My favorite part of the ceremony was seeing the adoration that loved ones gave to their family and friends that served or are serving in the armed forces. It was apparent through their smiles and hugs that they were proud of the decision that their loved ones had made in serving the country. Many gathered around for pictures after. 

At the end of the ceremony, I made my way to the center of the round about to grab photos of the engravings on the rocks that surround Memorial Way. I believe the message they bring is one of hope and of ordinary people stepping into extraordinary situations. Another rock acts as a tribute and lists past service members that have proudly served our country.

As I walked around campus, it was great to see ROTC students still in their uniforms walking and saluting each other proudly. 

As a grandson of a proud patriot who fought in the Battle of the Bulge, who was a Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient, I hold great pride in knowing a veteran that is sadly no longer with us. While it is only for one day that we officially honor our veterans, it's important to remember the role that they play and the importance that they hold for our country. It is not just November 11, but everyday that we should be thankful and appreciative for what they do or have done for us. Thank you to all our veterans.