Veterans honored for their service, sacrifice

Veterans will be honored by University of North Georgia (UNG) faculty, staff and students from Nov. 11-15. Veterans Appreciation Week recognizes individuals who have served in the six branches of the U.S. military: Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy and Space Force.

"It is important to honor the UNG student veterans during Veterans Appreciation Week because it gives us the chance to show our appreciation for the personal sacrifices and risks that veterans made while they served our country," Laura Russell, student orientation and success coordinator for military-connected and adult learner programs, said. "We want our student veterans to know that we have not forgotten all that they have done to keep our nation safe, and that we are here to support them during their educational journey."

Cadet Derek Roach is a senior who enlisted in February 2020 as a military police officer with the U. S. Army National Guard. He is pursuing an interdisciplinary studies degree, with concentrations in Mandarin Chinese, military leadership and entrepreneurship. He encourages seeking the wisdom and leadership of veterans.

"I believe we should, as the premier U.S. Army senior military college, make a greater effort to incorporate veterans and veteran alumni into the fabric of our Corps of Cadets and university at the personal and operational level. In doing so, we are ensuring that this vital dialogue between generations remains strong, as their knowledge, experience and leadership are, without a doubt, essential to guiding and mentoring the future leaders of our nation," Roach said.

He added that engaging veterans in meaningful dialogue is one of the most important ways to honor them.

"Many are battle-hardened warriors, while others have proven themselves as capable leaders responsible for the lives of their troops. Learning from their vast experience and leadership is nothing if not an invaluable resource," Roach said.