UC celebrates service and sacrifice of veterans

The University of Cincinnati recognized the sacrifice and service of current and former members of the military during its annual Veterans Day ceremony.

Veterans from every branch gathered in the atrium of Tangeman University Center, where the Bearcats Band welcomed them with an ensemble of military branch songs. U.S. Air Force Maj. Venancio Deocariza offered the invocation.

U.S. Army veteran and UC student Jonathon Leicht spoke on behalf of UC’s student veterans.

“Once you serve, you become a member of an enormous family,” Leicht said. “Being a veteran means never being alone.”

This year, 1,838 military-associated students are enrolled at UC, representing more than 3% of UC’s student body.

UC President Neville Pinto welcomed veterans and other guests to campus, including Hamilton County Commissioner Denise Driehaus and state Rep. Cecil Thomas, D-Cincinnati.

“Thank you for joining us as we recognize the 1.4 million active service members who serve our nation in the military today, as well as the 800,000-plus reserves,” Pinto said. “Even if we cannot know them all, we owe them all.”

Retired U.S. Army Col. Richard Prior spoke about his 25-year military career where he served roles such as chief nursing officer and family nurse practitioner. Prior is senior associate dean in UC’s College of Nursing. He thanked the veterans in attendance.

“If people only knew the amazing and extremely difficult things you’ve done in service of your country,” he said.

Prior said UC opened its arms to him when he transitioned to civilian life. Veterans have much to contribute to higher education as well, he said.

“The presence of veterans on campus is enriching,” Prior said. “You want veterans in your classroom because they don’t give up and they demand excellence of themselves, even when things get hard.”

“Veterans are accustomed to putting the needs of their organization above their own,” he said.

And the G.I. Bill provides one of the most valuable post-career benefits for members of the armed services, he said.

“Thank you for making UC a welcome place for veterans,” he said.

Featured image at top: UC hosted its Veterans Day celebration at Tangeman University Center. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand