Springfield Technical Community College proudly hosted a special event on Nov. 12 to honor veterans and commemorate Veterans Day.
Held in the Forum of the Student Learning Commons (Building 19), the campus-wide event engaged students, faculty and staff in activities designed to celebrate the service of veterans and raise awareness of the challenges they face.
The event, which took place the day after Veterans Day (STCC was closed on Nov. 11), featured a range of interactive stations, offering students a hands-on experience with various aspects of military life. Attendees sampled Meals, Ready-to-Eat (MREs) – field rations commonly used by soldiers – providing a taste of the food that sustains service members in combat zones. MREs included corn nuggets, vegetable lasagne, Pop-Tarts, chocolate pudding with protein and more. A display of military gear and the evolution of uniforms over time showcased the history and technological advancements in military attire, highlighting the ways in which uniforms have adapted to meet soldiers’ needs.
In addition to the educational displays, a physical training station invited students to participate in exercises, giving them a sense of the fitness standards maintained by service members. A 22-pushup challenge was also held to bring attention to the high suicide rates among veterans, symbolizing the 22 veterans who die by suicide each day. The display of military branch patches offered a glimpse into the diversity of service and the unity among the branches.
“We are grateful to all the students who took time to visit and engage in these activities,” said Dr. Kimberly Reese, Veterans Academic Counselor at STCC. “This event is a testament to our commitment to honor and support veterans on our campus and beyond.”
STCC student Justice Casselman of Springfield served in the Army for four years. She is now studying biology. Casselman answered questions and met with visitors to the event. “We want to thank all the students who stopped by and participated and faculty for helping us celebrate and bring awareness to veterans here at the campus,” she said.
For more information about veterans and military services at STCC, call (413) 755-5343 or email vet@stcc.edu.
