Thursday, November 07, 2019

The UNCW Office of Military Affairs is hosting a variety of events to honor veterans and connect members of the military-affiliated community during a weeklong tribute starting November 11.

“The week’s events recognize the significance the military has played in this university’s storied history,” said Bill Kawczynski, director of military affairs. “They’re also opportunities for veteran students to share their thoughts on being a veteran and the experiences they had while serving our country. For many veterans, Veterans Day is a time to celebrate their camaraderie.”

The events planned throughout Veterans Week are designed to give the UNCW community the chance to interact with the many faculty, staff and students who have served, and to gain a better perspective of what service means and the sacrifices that go along with being in the military. A key priority of the university’s Strategic Plan is promoting an inclusive culture and enhancing student support.

“During Veterans Week here at UNCW, we remember and celebrate those before us who chose to serve something bigger than themselves,” said Kawczynski.

The week begins with the annual Veterans Day Ceremony, recognizing all veterans past and present, on Monday, Nov. 11. The ceremony will include speeches from Kawczynski, as well as Joe Wessel, USMC Veteran and SVO President; James McNeil, U.S. Army veteran and UNCW student; and Col. Rob Campbell, U.S. Army (retired) and vice president of UNCW’s Braxton Bragg Chapter of the Association of the United States Army.

The ceremony will take place at the Campus Amphitheater beginning at 10:45 a.m. Following, there will be a luncheon for all military-affiliated faculty, staff and students in the Clock Tower Lounge at 11:30 a.m.

On Tuesday Nov. 12, a Military Appreciation Basketball Game will be held in honor of World War II veterans. Free tickets are available for military-connected community members. The Office of Military Affairs will host a pizza party in the Warwick Center prior to the game.

A complete list of Veterans Week events can be found on the Office of Military Affairs’ event page.

-- Christina Schechtman

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