On Nov. 11 the college gathered to honor the courage and sacrifice of veterans at the annual Veterans Day ceremony. It was a meaningful time of remembrance and gratitude for those dedicated to our country.
For more than 20 years Ozarks Tech has held the celebration as a thank you to each veteran who has worn the uniform with pride, integrity and resilience. This year’s guest speaker was Vietnam veteran and Bronze Star recipient Bob Huff, who reminded eventgoers that not every veteran has experienced thanks for their service.
“Many of us during Vietnam were drafted, and we went because our government and country needed us and wanted us to serve, but when we returned we didn’t get celebrated for our duty,” Huff said. “That’s why events like this are so important. It shows veterans they are appreciated. So, when you see a veteran today or any day, be sure to say thank you because it means a lot.”
At Ozarks Tech, veteran students can find additional support through the Veterans Upward Bound program. During the ceremony, John Larson, Air Force veteran and VUB participant, received the Outstanding OTC Veteran Award.
Larson is currently taking courses as part of the Ozarks Tech Behavioral Health Support Program and is scheduled to graduate in spring of 2025 with the goal of working as a case manager. In addition to the award, Larson was also presented with a $500 OTC Foundation scholarship by Ozarks Tech board of trustees member Howard Fisk.
To help round out the 2024 Veterans Day event, members of the Sons of the American Revolution presented the Colors and” Taps” was performed by Ozarks Tech music instructor Philip Forrester. The “Pledge of Allegiance” was led by Barbara Cash, Ozarks Tech student and Army veteran, and Tony Evans, Ozarks Tech student and Marine Corps veteran.
To our Ozarks Tech Eagles who have served or are currently serving: we see you, we honor you and we are here to support you every step of the way.