Many people have relatives, friends, and maybe even parents who served in the military. Some may have heard stories and know all about how they bravely served the country, but most people will never know what it was like to really risk their lives. MC’s annual Veterans’ Day assembly on Monday, November 11 aims to celebrate their veteran alumni and all veterans.
Various veterans gathered in the main gym on Monday, as well as many alumni, friends, and family members of the MC community.
Dean of Faculty Mr. Bill Nolan gave a history of Veterans’ Day to remind people of why it is celebrated. “November 11th, 1919, countries around the world including the United States observed the first Armistice Day to honor those who served,” Nolan said. “In 1954 President Eisenhower officially changed the name from Armistice day to Veterans’ Day, acknowledging the millions who served in World War II in Korea.”
He also pointed out the ways in which MC celebrates veterans. “As you walk down the hall of the second floor hallway in the Graham Center, we are reminded of the MC alumni who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. By the grace of God and the fate of History it’s their names that were called and not ours, but they were like us. They ran the same hallways, they went in that front door, they ran around the old alumni JY track. They were one of us, they were our MC brothers.”
Many MC students are interested in or are committed to pursuing a future in the military, like seniors Zander Gorman, who is applying to the West Point, the Air Force Academy, and Virginia Military Institute, and Grant Best, an Air Force Academy commit for basketball.
“My dad taught me many different characteristics that stem heavily from service in the military, such as leadership, discipline, and a good work-ethic,” said senior Marty Mann in front of the gathered crowd. “Each of these characteristics have led myself towards the possibility of my own service in the US Military. Inspired and guided by important people in my life, especially my Dad and Grandpa, I am determined to become an officer in the US Navy. My ultimate goal is to graduate from the United States Naval Academy.”
Robert Richter, a Vietnam veteran from 1967-69, could attest to what Mann said.
“The military helped me grow up faster,” Richter said. “The experiences that you get to learn from are unbelievable. It teaches you things that you take with you the rest of your life.”
Veterans have sacrificed for their country. Various circumstances bring them into the military, but a common goal of security is fulfilled by them. As this year’s Veterans’ Day passes, make sure to appreciate those who have served.
