Albany State University holds Veterans Day ceremony

ALBANY — Veterans Day, recognized on the anniversary of World War I’s official ending, is a day set aside to acknowledge those who have served in the nation’s military.

To mark the occasion, several events were held in the Albany area — including one at Albany State University.

“Regardless of which branch, we have all given a sacrifice,” said Army Maj. Thomas Smith, the Albany State ROTC Department chair, at the ASU ceremony.

Veterans Day is recognized on Nov. 11, the day in 1918 that marked the end of hostilities for “the war to end all wars.” Observations on the day are often conducted at 11:11 a.m., the time at which the war was declared over.

Among those who offered greetings at Albany State’s Veterans Day ceremony was Albany Mayor Dorothy Hubbard, who was there to honor the sacrifice of service on behalf of the city.

“Thank you for protecting our freedoms,” she said. “Today, every day, we remember.”

Shalonda Heard, staff council president for Darton State College, spoke on the campus Darton is about to be merged with on her experience of growing up in a military family and how that experience helps her to appreciate Veterans Day.

“On this day, I honor not just my parents, but all those who have heard the call to serve,” she said.

The keynote speaker at the event was Col. Calvin Hudson II, a 1994 graduate of Albany State who is now serving with the U.S Army Corps of Engineers.

Hudson said he discovered the gravity of the sacrifices associated with military service when he entered into service himself. He acknowledged the veterans at the program, making special note of the Vietnam War veterans who did not get support from their communities when they came back.

“I love you guys,” he said. “You were the real deal. … You held your head high.”

During his ROTC days, Hudson said he wondered whether he would be able to get to the other side with a degree. He addressed the current ROTC cadets by advising them to study, stay physically active and to be themselves.

He also addressed the issues the nation’s military is currently facing with a war that has changed the way personnel are trained, the limited resources and the need to make sure service personnel are taken care of.

“Always choose to do the hard right (path) over the easy wrong,” the colonel said.

The ceremony included performances by the Albany State Concert Chorale, ASU Brass Ensemble and a balloon release. A moment of silence was observed for fallen members of the military.

Related activities on Friday included Veterans Day programs at American Legion Posts 512 and 30, and the dedication of a room at Willson Hospice House for veterans during end-of-life care.