Fellow Seawolves,
Veterans Day is always an important acknowledgement of those who have served as gatekeepers and defenders of democracy – both here in the U.S. and around the world. But following such a consequential election on Tuesday, I can’t help but be even more mindful of the risks and sacrifices those who enter military service face. Not just the physical dangers, but the emotional challenges of conflict and the process of returning to their home communities after service. Now more than ever we can appreciate the value of public service in all of its forms, including military service.
Sonoma State is proud to have veterans studying here, as well as for our dedicated Military and Veteran Resource Center. As a public university, we are also serving the community and our nation’s most fundamental democratic values. Sharing these values in service is one of the highest forms of patriotism, and Veterans Day is an opportunity to appreciate and honor our military for their sacrifices and contributions to our country and our democracy.
Indeed, next week we will be celebrating the 40th Anniversary of our Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Grove, with an event scheduled for November 17th at 11:00 AM. Please click on this link to RSVP with your intention to attend. The Grove, originally dedicated in 1982, is unique in that it is one of the few memorials of its type to be dedicated to a specific region. I hope to see you there, and in the meantime want to thank everyone on our campus for your thoughtful acknowledgement of our nation’s veterans.
Warmly,
Mike
Mike Lee, Ph.D.
President