Veterans Day Reflection: Honoring Service Beyond Words

On Veterans Day, communities across the globe pause to express gratitude to those who have served in the military. This year, the message resonates deeply, reminding us that saying “thank you for your service” is merely the beginning of acknowledging the sacrifices made by veterans like Kate Lentz, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and associate director for Veterans and Transfer Student Success at Baldwin Wallace University.

Understanding the Depth of Service

The phrase “thank you for your service” is brief yet carries profound significance. It encapsulates generations of courage, sacrifice, and a commitment to something greater than oneself. For veterans, service extends beyond the time spent in uniform. It encompasses the early mornings, long deployments, and the birthdays missed while serving. These experiences contribute to a resilience that many carry home, shaping their lives and the lives of their families.

Veterans hail from all corners of society, representing diverse backgrounds and experiences. They are classmates, colleagues, neighbors, and friends who have served in various capacities, from combat zones to peacekeeping missions. While their experiences may differ, they are united by a common thread: a selfless dedication to serving others.

Supporting Veterans at Baldwin Wallace University

At Baldwin Wallace University, where Lentz leads military student services, there is a strong commitment to supporting veterans. The institution recognizes that veteran students and alumni bring valuable leadership, discipline, and diverse perspectives to campus life. This commitment goes beyond mere words; it is evident in the resources and community established to help veterans thrive.

The BW All-Star Student Veterans Resource Center, also known as the Vet House, serves as a welcoming environment for connection, study, and camaraderie. It is a space where student veterans and military-connected individuals can find support, share experiences, and build friendships with others navigating the transition from military to college life.

Through the university’s chapter of Student Veterans of America (SVA), veterans at Baldwin Wallace engage in advocacy and leadership opportunities, continuing their legacy of making a positive impact in their communities. Each year, the university strives to send leaders from its chapter to the SVA National Conference, allowing them to network with peers and organizations dedicated to veterans. This experience fosters the exchange of resources and ideas to enhance the veteran experience on campus.

This year, Baldwin Wallace proudly celebrated its veterans, both past and present, through a special gathering known as the Veteran Alumni Reunion, held during the university’s Bold & Gold Homecoming Weekend. This event served as a poignant reminder of the bonds forged through service. It was an evening filled with reflection, gratitude, and shared stories, emphasizing that while military service may conclude, the connections formed endure.

Veterans Day serves as both a moment of remembrance and a call to renewal. It inspires us to embody the same purpose and service-oriented mindset that veterans demonstrate daily. As Baldwin Wallace University continues to support its veteran community, the message remains clear: appreciation for service should be matched with action, community involvement, and unwavering support.

To all who have served and continue to serve, Baldwin Wallace University honors your courage, dedication, and lasting impact on both the campus and the wider world. Thank you for your service.