The realities of war and death sank in as students and veterans took time to reflect at A&T’s annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony on Thursday, November 11.

The ceremony, hosted by A&T’s Army and Air Force ROTC programs, is held annually to honor those Aggies who lost their lives defending our nation.

Although brief, the program was full of meaning. It was directed by the ROTC cadets and began with an invocation. There was an introduction of speakers and then remarks by two Army officers. Following their remarks, cadets conducted the wreath laying and Taps was played in the background. Taps is a military bugle call that is usually played at funerals, wreath-layings, and memorial services.

Lieutenant Colonel Burnett, Army Professor of Military Science, said that those involved in wars showed selfless service and dedication. They are “men of great courage who put the welfare of the country above their own.”

Retired Army Sergeant First Class Avery Fleming, ROTC Administrative technician, said that even though we do not pay that much attention to Veterans as civilians, their sacrifices allow us to go on with our daily routine.

“They are a part of the pavement for our future,” Fleming said.

Because there are current A&T students who are already Veterans or have lost their lives to war at such a young age, the ceremony had an even more solemn feel. The moment of silence was especially dedicated to Specialists Mark A. Bibby and Lunsford Brown. They were Aggies who recently lost their lives in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Army Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Melissa Hejlik said that you know that there is a chance of going into war when you join the military.

“Its misfortunate, but I’m proud of them at the same time,” she said.

Army Master Sergeant Christian, ROTC instructor and a Veteran of Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom said that it is good that young people are joining the military because there has to be someone to teach the new generations.

“It’s not for everyone, but somebody has to do it…Get them in young and they can learn from experienced men.”

Army Cadet Captain Fern Freeman disagrees with students being pulled out of their studies to go to war. “It puts them behind and at a disadvantage, but at the end it is a reward.”

A&T had several students to return from Iraq recently. Army Sergeant Ansen Jones, an A&T student and Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, said that Thursday’s ceremony was better than nothing.

“Not everybody makes it back. So, it’s good to be honored.” Retired Army First Sergeant James Basnight, Vietnam Veteran, was in the military for 23 years and he agrees that recognition for Veterans is good.

The Veteran’s Day Ceremony took place in front of the War Memorial Monument located on the north side of the Memorial Student Union. The monument was dedicated by the Class of 1947. Many members of the class were present at the ceremony. Nettie McIntosh, a member of the class of 1947, said that the program was “very impressive” and “just enough.”

• Stancheka Boone