UC News

Veterans urge mindfulness with fireworks

Some aspects of everyday life can be more difficult for veterans, says program director.

headshot of Angela Koenig By Angela Koenig 513-558-4625
3 minute read July 8, 2025

In interviews with Spectrum News 1 and WCPO, UC’s Veterans Programs & Services program manager Terence Harrison and veteran-student Crystal Merino spoke about the many facets of returning to civilian life and the veterans services available at the university.

The Veterans Programs & Services office helps student veterans transition from military life to academics through personalized advising, VA benefits guidance, and a dedicated lounge space. Harrison also visits reserve units to inform service members about how to use their GI Bill and other educational resources. These efforts have contributed to UC’s recent renewal of its Ohio Collegiate Purple Star designation, an honor given to schools that demonstrate outstanding support for military-connected students.

The support at UC has been life-changing for students like Crystal Merino, a Marine Corps veteran and current student in UC’s advanced medical imaging program. Merino, who left active duty to pursue the clinical work required for her career, told both news outlets that finding a community of veterans on campus has helped her feel grounded.

The focus of both news segments was not only to announce the renewal of UC’s Purple Star designation, but to also highlight aspects of everyday life that differ for veterans, from signing up for classes or even the enjoyment of a holiday weekend.

For example, in the Spectrum News 1 interview, Harrison, a U.S. Army Reserve member, cautioned the public to “be mindful” that certain sights and sounds — such as with fireworks — can be triggering for veterans who were stationed in combat zones.  In this segment, Harrison recalls instinctively reaching for a weapon during a neighborhood fireworks show—an automatic response rooted in his military experience.

Watch the news segments:

Spectrum News 1: Veterans urge mindfulness during fireworks season

WCPO: University of Cincinnati recognized with national Purple Star Award. (This segment was syndicated by Yahoo News!) 

Featured image at top: Veterans Day ceremony 2024. Photo/UC Marketing + Brand.

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