Nov 11th, 2013
The students, faculty and staff of Jackson State Community College came together at 11:30 today in the campus quad for a time of remembrance. As a part of Remembrance Day National Roll Call, the JSCC Office of Veterans Affairs hosted this ceremony in which fallen soldiers from this area are remembered.
Tracy Morton, Coordinator of Veterans Affairs, opened the ceremony by introducing the color guard. The Presentation of Colors was done by Jackson State students/veterans and the schools chorus, Innovation, performed the National Anthem.
The keynote speaker for the event was Mr. Bobby Smith, Vice President of Academic Affairs. Mr. Smith noted the origins of Armistice Day and how this day coincides with what is now Veterans Day and Remembrance Day. It was mentioned how important it is for all American citizens to take time to remember the ones who have fought for our freedom and especially those who paid the ultimate price with theirlives.
Tracy Morton along with seven others read the roll containing 140 names of Tennessee soldiers that have died in the line of duty since 2001. It was a poignant moment in the ceremony when Tracy described all the elements of the POW-MIA Table that was on display. Each element of the display carries a special significance that describes how a soldier missing today may not be with us, yet remembered. At the end of the ceremony, a National moment of silence was observed at 1:00 p.m.
Following the event there was a reception in the Student Union Building. This provided an opportunity for students and veterans to fellowship.