LU honors veterans during annual Veterans Day program

Lamar University (LU) recognized the service and sacrifices of military veterans during its annual Veterans Day Program and Lunch on Nov. 11 in the Live Oak Ballroom of the Setzer Student Center. 

Hosted by the Office of Strategic Initiatives, the event brought together veterans, students, faculty, staff and community members to reflect on military service and its lasting impact. The program featured remarks from LU President Jaime Taylor and Dr. Caleb Hood, an assistant professor of teacher education and retired U.S. Marine Corps first sergeant.

Taylor reflected on his personal connections to military service, including his father's 27 years in the Air Force and two cousins who served in Vietnam. Growing up near Fort Campbell, Kentucky, he witnessed the challenges faced by service members and their families.

He also recalled working with student veterans at Austin Peay State University, including a student who sustained a traumatic brain injury during military service. Despite the challenges the student faced, fellow veterans helped him navigate campus and attend classes, ultimately supporting him through graduation.

"Seeing those individuals again who have given so much for our country, it's hard not to care deeply about this country because those individuals care deeply about this country," Taylor said.

Hood, who spent 17 years teaching in Texas schools before joining LU's Department of Teacher Education, drew on his experiences in the Marine Corps to discuss the responsibilities, challenges and relationships that shape military service.

He emphasized that veterans often carry the lessons of their service into civilian life, regardless of whether they served in combat. From demanding training exercises to everyday responsibilities, Hood said military experiences create lasting bonds among service members.

"No matter your MOS, at that young age, that intensity and that knowledge that others were relying on you has an incredible impact on you," Hood said, referring to military occupational specialties.

Hood also reflected on the camaraderie among veterans, recalling shared experiences and friendships that remain meaningful long after military service ends.

As part of the ceremony, Hood explained the symbolism of the Missing Man Table, a military tradition honoring service members who are missing, captured or have died.

The display featured several symbolic items, including a white tablecloth representing the purity of service members' intentions, a red rose honoring those who are missing and their loved ones, and a yellow ribbon signifying the commitment to accounting for missing personnel. An inverted glass and empty chair served as reminders of those unable to return home.

"Let us remember and never forget their sacrifice, and God forever watch over them and protect them and their families," Hood said.

The program also featured a digital presentation recognizing LU students, faculty, staff and alumni veterans, highlighting the university community's connections to military service.

The annual observance provided an opportunity for the campus and surrounding community to honor veterans, recognize their contributions and remember those who did not return home.