Interim President Dr. Thompson: We salute our men and women in uniform
Yesterday Kentucky State University held a Veterans Day convocation at Bradford Hall that paid homage to our own students in uniform. Members of the Frankfort chapter of The Links, Inc., and Ronald Spriggs, executive director of the Ron Spriggs Exhibit of the Tuskegee Airmen, reminded our campus of the importance of our loyal young men and women who serve in the military forces. Both Spriggs and the national women’s organization honored several young women – also known as “sheroes” — with a white rose and a certificate.
Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on November 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and November 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938.
Ronald Spriggs
Spriggs, an eight-year USAF veteran, urged the crowd that “we have been given the constitutional right of expression. You may curse the presidency, you may spit upon the American flag and have total disregard for the political process. You don’t have to stand during the “National Anthem” or pledge your allegiance to the flag, but remember this: It is, and was and has always been, the veteran who has ensured your expressions. Please don’t let November 11th go by without thanking a veteran. They have made several sacrifices for their fellow Americans.”
He then smiled as he told everyone that “a hug would also be nice, too. I like hugs.”
Spriggs’ words and the Frankfort chapter of The Links, Inc., are examples of how we can extend our gratitude to our military veterans. It is important that all of us salute these dedicated men and women every day for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve.
Kentucky State University is extremely proud of its Army Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) program and the brave men and women in the military.
We salute you and thank you for your service.
Sincerely,
Aaron Thompson, Ph.D.
Interim President