“Do not thank us, just remember us.”
That was the message by Wilkes student veteran and earth and environmental science major Michael Parduski during a heartfelt and emotional Veterans Day ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 11.
The Veterans Council organized the virtual event which included reflections from across the campus community. It concluded with the playing of taps by environmental engineering student Brandon Whitman and a photo slideshow of Wilkes Colonels and their loved ones who have served.
Wilkes President Greg Cant remembered his grandfather who served in the Australian Royal Navy. AFROTC Detachment 752 cadet and computer science major Justin Sprenkle spoke about the loss of his great uncle, who died in Vietnam, and the impact on his grandfather, who got the news while serving in Okinawa. Chase Passman, a nursing major and son of an Air Force Veteran, reflected on the sacrifice required of service members and their families. Kristin Osipower, campus interfaith coordinator, provided the invocation.
Michael Young, bioengineering major and president of the Veterans Council, concluded the event with an important reminder about the resources that are available for veterans in need.
“If you ever come across a veteran in emotional distress who you are unable to assist, please contact the Veteran Crisis line at 1-800-273-8255 and press one. This phone number will provide you and that veteran the tools and assistance needed.”
Read more in the Citizens Voice and the Times Leader.
