Veteran’s Day is soon approaching and UW Eau Claire is ready to recognize service members
From speakers to a football game honoring veterans, there are many ways to participate on this holiday
More stories from Austin Wagner
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American flags standing proud at the Field of Honor in Eau Claire
American heroes may be remembered often by their family and friends, but Veteran’s Day recognizes nationwide those who have served.
Eau Claire is no exception to this, with a schedule full of local events leading up to Nov. 11, Veteran’s Day.
One of those events is a fundraiser for the UW- Eau Claire Veteran’s Club where students are invited to purchase a flag for $30 that will display the name and rank of a service member in their life. The flags are available for purchase from Nov. 9 -13 and will be flown over the campus mall that week.
Additionally, the Blugold Football team will honor veterans in their final home game at 1 p.m. Nov. 7 at Carson Park. There will be free admission for veterans/current service members at the match against UW-Platteville Pioneers.
The holiday will also be recognized by veteran students doing the coin toss, the Color Guard will be presented by the ROTC program and a special halftime show.
Veterans Benefits Coordinator Miranda Cross-Schindler said it’s important students learn about those they share the campus with.
“There are nearly 500 students on campus with military ties, whether that be a veteran, current National Guard students or their wives, husbands, or children,” Cross-Schindler said.
She herself was a member of the Army Reserves as an Animal Care Specialist.
Sophomore international business, marketing and management major Brandon Cedarblade, who works in the Veteran’s Service office, also currently serves in the National Guard as a combat medic.
Cedarblade said the weeks’ events mean a great deal to the service community.
“Not many holidays are meant to recognize service, so it’s vital for veterans and their families,” Cedarblade said.
Other events for the week of Veteran’s Day include:
— Veteran’s awareness training, noon to 12:50 p.m. Nov. 9 at Old Library 1142.
— National Guard major Angela Joseph will speak about her 27 years of service and combat, noon to 1 p.m. Nov. 10 from noon to 1 p.m. at Woodland Theater.
— Veteran’s appreciation meal offered for free to veterans and current service members, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 11 at Schofield Hall 120.