Mercyhurst community honors veterans at annual Celebration of Valor
On Friday, Nov. 6, Mercyhurst University hosted its annual Celebration of Valor in honor of Veterans Day, bringing the campus community together to pay tribute and express gratitude to veterans and service members.
Led by the “Pride of PA” Mercyhurst University Army ROTC Cadet Color Guard, the day began at 8 a.m. with a flag-raising ceremony in front of Old Main accompanied by a ceremonial cannon.
The main ceremony followed in the Mercy Heritage Room, opening with live music by Music for Veterans, a local nonprofit that provides a creative musical environment and support system for veterans.
Student involvement played a pivotal part throughout the program. The Army ROTC Color Guard posted the colors and conducted a Fallen Soldier Ceremony to honor service members who are prisoners of war, missing in action, or who have died in service. Student Sophia Mazzocco led the national anthem, and student Rowen Oakley performed “Taps.”
Dr. Greg Baker, vice president for mission, led an opening prayer. Dr. Florentine Hoelker, interim provost and vice president of academic affairs, followed with welcoming remarks that recognized veterans across the Mercyhurst community and beyond.
Guest speaker Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Ryan Genard, professor of military science at Gannon University, delivered his address, titled “Eternal Thanks for Temporary Service.” LTC Genard reflected on the lifelong impact of military service, regardless of branch or length of duty. He reminded attendees that everyday freedoms are owed to the commitment of veterans to core values. “They provide year-round support,” he noted, “and our thanks must be lasting.”
“Mercyhurst University has had a long-standing tradition of recognizing our veteran community for over 20 years,” shared Veterans Service Coordinator Chris Popa, organizer of the event. The Celebration of Valor also includes honoring prisoners of war and those still missing in action from all conflicts. It reflects the nation’s pledge to account for every unreturned service member, symbolized by the black-and-white POW/MIA flag bearing the words "You Are Not Forgotten."
Mercyhurst extends its gratitude to the Kiwanis Club of Erie for providing the American flags used for Veterans Day, as well as the ROTC cadets who took part in the ceremony: Derek Bly, Will Capizzi, Cade Driscoll, Luke Ludwig, Esteban Gonzalez, Zachary Matthews, James Neal, and Nathan Stone.
Those who participated and attended made this community tradition special, and all community members are invited to continue to honor those who served this Veterans Day.