Shakell James
Editor-in-Chief
Student veterans and military personnel from diverse backgrounds gathered in the Terry L. Woodard Ballroom at Jackson State University for the Veterans Day Recognition Program on Nov. 12.
Veterans Day, celebrated nationally on Nov. 11, marks the anniversary of the signing of the armistice—the agreement that ended World War I hostilities between the Allied nations and Germany in 1918. On this day, veterans are honored for their service to the United States.
The guest speaker for the event was Colonel Barbara Ousby, a member of the U.S. Army, who emphasized the importance of recognizing veterans’ values. She also serves as an environmental science specialist in the United States Army Reserve.
“Today we recognize that defending freedom is a shared responsibility extending to all citizens. Veterans gain valuable knowledge and skills through their service. Their discipline and broader perspective make them courageous and resilient. We are all linked by our Army values: loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage,” said Ousby.
She added: “Jackson State University was at the forefront when they started the Ph.D. environmental science program. I was one of the first students to graduate. I did it with support from this institution and from my family and friends. After I graduated in 1997, the Army was looking for environmental science officers. The recruiter called me and I was commissioned in 2000 as an environmental science officer, giving me constructive credit because I had a Ph.D. in environmental science. I came in with a level of maturity already. With the help of my husband who is currently serving and friends, they helped shape me into the soldier that I am today.”
The program guide, Ornette Lee, expressed words of appreciation for veterans in attendance.
“I am happy that we are here to extend a warm welcome to all the wonderful veterans who have served this country faithfully,” said Lee.
The event also featured the presentation of colors by Jackson State University’s Army ROTC and Air Force Color Guard and the powerful rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful” by graduate music education graduate student Donte Wright.
Daeja Sawyer, a senior criminal justice major from Jackson, Miss., who also serves as senior class secretary, discussed the significance of the holiday.
“My take away from this veteran’s event is that they need to be recognized more for what they’ve done for us. We need to give people their flowers while they’re still here. My dad is also a veteran so I want to give him a shoutout. I’m grateful for everything he has done for me and this country,” said Sawyer.
Gavin Tolbert, a senior biomedical engineering major from Houston, Texas also reflected on the momentous event.
“Veterans do so much, including those in the Reserves, as they have a hand in everything. From disaster relief to war, we don’t appreciate them enough. We should take the time to truly understand what they do, how well they do it, and how and how big of a word they actually have,” said Tolbert.
Raegan Johnson, a senior computer science major from Jackson, Miss., who serves as Student Government Association President believes that Veteran’s Day is more than just a day on the calendar.
“Veteran’s Day is a reminder of the sacrifices, the courage, and the commitment that [veterans] have displayed. As students, faculty, alumni, staff, and loved ones, this moment is our opportunity to say thank you for your resilience, discipline, and unwavering dedication to the nation,” said Johnson.
