Thank Your Everyday Heroes

To me, Veteran’s Day is a time for me to consciously think about the effect that the military has on this country; how so many give their lives to serve and protect America; how not only my family, but so many others know at least one person who has served, is serving, or will serve; and how reintegrating into civilian society can be more tough than service itself. On Tuesday, November 11, 2014 between the hours of noon and 1 p.m., Veterans, students, and employees alike gathered to observe Veteran’s Day.

The event began with a presentation of colors by the UVA Color Guard. The Pledge of Allegiance was then heard, followed by the National Anthem sung by Andrew Renshaw. Pastor Harold L. Bare, Sr., Ph.D., from the Covenant Church then held an Invocation. Albemarle Pipes and Drums then played a beautiful military tribute with bagpipes before a message from the President, Frank Friedman. Other voices of veterans were then heard about honoring the service provided by veterans, as well as issues that veterans are currently facing such as homelessness. A brunch buffet table was provided with crisp fruits and vegetables. Chef Ralph Brown Sr., Army veteran and PVCC alumni, provided tasty, fresh made omelettes. After the celebration of Veterans, a few key proprietors stayed to clean up after the event, and I asked them what veteran’s day meant to them.

Sherrod Fisher, a retired chief petty officer of the United States Navy, shared his thoughts about the day: “Today marks the day of remembrance and celebration for those who served and those who continue to serve this great nation…Veteran’s Day allowed me to connect with past and present friends, and establish new relationships with many who share a common bond of service to our country.”

SVO President, Brian Pacet, said, “Today was about honoring our service members and those veterans who attend PVCC, who have selfishlessly given their time and lives in defense of our nation. Their honor, courage, and commitment is a testament to America’s freedom and insurance of the future for our Constitution.”

With their inspiring truths, I end on the Student Veterans of America advisor, Jackie Fisher, and her empowering words, “Our gathering is just one small spark in the flame of pride that burns across the nation…we can honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can live in freedom.”

A few things to take a look at:

PVCC Student Veterans of America description:  http://www.pvcc.edu/student-life/clubs/student-veterans-of-america

Student Perspective on PVCC SVA and transferring:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sak-eMd-R6Y

Facebook link:

https://www.facebook.com/PVCCSVO