On Nov. 12, St. Joseph’s University, New York held ceremonies across its two campuses to honor its veteran students and alumni in recognition of Veterans Day. Coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States Army, Navy and Marie Corps, this year’s events saw students, staff and faculty gather to show their support and appreciation for those who have served in the military.
In the Student Center’s multipurpose room on the Long Island Campus, SJNY President Donald R. Boomgaarden, Ph.D. personally thanked each student and alumni veteran for their service, offering his utmost gratitude.
Followed by President Boomgaarden’s introduction was Professor of Philosophy Stephen Rockwell, Ph.D., who spoke on the history of the U.S. military and the significance surrounding the 250th anniversary of its Army, Navy and Marine Corps.
From there, Student Veterans of America (SVA) President Bailey Meyer took to the podium to encourage all who attended to continue to support veteran organizations as well as one another.
“The lessons learned don’t end when the uniform comes off,” Meyer stated. “We carry them into classrooms, workplaces and communities. It’s important that veterans show up for veterans.”
Meyer and President Boomgaarden then called up every veteran in attendance to receive to their SVA challenge coin in honor of their sacrifice and commitment to their country.
On the Brooklyn Campus, a similar ceremony took place in the Tuohy Hall Auditorium. Retired United States Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer, James M. Mackey, the brother of Campus Ministry Director S. Marie Mackey ’84, was invited to share his 30-year experience.
“I could not have asked for a better career,” Mackey shared. “My life in the USCG was filled with adventure, opportunities and service. The risks that I took on sea and air were always dangerous but there is no greater feeling when you save a life.”
He encouraged students in the audience to consider a career in the military and spoke about the Coast Guard’s unique mission to protect and patrol the coasts of the United States, conducting search and rescue missions, drug interdiction, law enforcement on the seas, conservation of living marine resources and their habitats and more.
