As bright red, white and blue flags and balloons lined the grounds, propelled by a gentle breeze, Albany State University students, faculty and staff joined national observances of Veteran’s Day.  The ceremony opened with a prelude, the Presentation of Colors and the National Anthem. Youngsters from ASU’s Early Learning Center led the Pledge of Allegiance.

This year’s celebration included a 21 gun volley, and service songs of the Army, Marines, Navy, U.S. Coast Guard and Air Force presented by the ASU Brass Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Michael Martin.

“We stand in the midst of patriots who’ve made our armed forces the most respected in the world,” said Retired Major Timothy Cross, the speaker. Cross recounted the history of the celebration aimed at honoring veterans for their patriotism, sacrifices, love of country, and willingness to serve. “They are ordinary people accomplishing extraordinary things. Some endured hardships and experienced the horrors of war. America owes a debt to veterans that can never be repaid, but we remember them and honor them,” he added.

ASU senior Antoinette McKenzie from Monroe, Ga. attended her first Veteran’s Day program today. “I liked the music most and songs from each branch of the military,” McKenzie said.

“It was really good,” said Linda Collins, a psychology major from Albany, Ga. “I enjoyed two areas, his speech and the music.”

Lachandra Fields of Wadley, Ga. was in the crowd. Fields left behind two young daughters and her husband to serve in the Navy for 9 years. She was deployed in Afghanistan for 9 months, but is now an ASU senior majoring in social work. “This was my school’s way of saying thank you for my service to our country. I cried many nights after missing Mother’s Day and the holidays,” she said, “but it’s paying off right now. I’m going to school and it’s all paid for. In January, I’ll start a master’s program at Florida State and they’ll continue to pay for that degree.”

ASU’s Concert Chorale, representatives from the Gospel Choir and a solo trumpeter playing “Taps” concluded the program. Albany State’s ceremony was the third on the same day for Commodore Conyers who served in the Army Airborne during the Korean War. “I always attend to support Albany State, all the time,” said Conyers, who is also a 1987 ASU alumnus.  

For more information contact the Albany State University Office of University Communications at 229-430-4671.