 "Photo: Julian Melton/Echo staff reporter")
N.C. Central University has hundreds of veterans. And on Veteran's Day they got their recognition with a program honoring their service. The program, held at the Alfonso Elder Student Union, was a collaboration between College Students for Military Families and a Dimensions of Learning class taught by Paula Perez, and Sophie King, instructors in Human Sciences.
"Why not honor those who sacrifice for us? Why not give back to those who gave their lives for us? Why not serve those who served for us?," said Perez at the beginning of the program.
Perez started College Students for Military Families in 2009. CSMF is designed to acknowledge and support students and their families who are or have served in the armed forces.
"Life is not easy, but the military gave me the leadership skills that I need to succeed in life and is paying for my education," said David Taylor, a fitness and wellness junior at NCCU.
Taylor joined the National Guard in 2007 to support his daughter.
He was deployed to Iraq in 2009 before returning home to attend NCCU in 2010. The injuries and casualities of U.S. soldiers at war not only affect those in service, but the families of soldiers who anxiously await their return.
In October, the Army had 172,800 soldiers, the Navy 30,000 sailors, the Marines 20,900 and the Air Force 31,500 deployed.
"In my classes, I have students who have family members, loved ones and friends who are in the armed forces," said King.
"The students who participated in this program feel very connected." The program consisted of a reading of the CSFMF mission and purpose, a speech from NCCU student and Marine veteran, Steven McLaughlin Jr., and other NCCU Eagle veterans were recognized and honored.
McLaughlin is a political science senior at NCCU who served four years in the United States Marine Corps.
McLaughlin said that success in life depends on short and long-term goals, commitment, a positive attitude and drive.
"These three elements for success are yours forever," said McLaughlin. "They can be used in all areas of life whether you are in combat or in the classroom. It is up to you. Set your goals and commit yourself."
CSFMF president Fredrick Harris, a criminal justice major and military veteran, stressed the need for continuous support for those who are deployed. "My comrades have to go back," he said.
"Those are the guys who will be boots on the sand in another year or so. I'm home, but our job is to give them the support they need so they can come home too."
Click here for more information on deployment statistics.
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