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Follow on Google News |  Vanguard University Dedicated New "Veterans Courtyard of Honor" with Admiral Vernon E. ClarkVU is the first of its kind to dedicate a courtyard on campus to honor past and present veterans.
Former Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) and VU Board Member Admiral Vernon E. Clark, USN (Ret.) served as the keynote speaker. Admiral Clark, who retired in 2005 after completing the Navy’s second-longest tenure as CNO, spoke about his experience in leadership and addressed the difficulty facing veterans today as they transition from the military to civilian life. “This special courtyard serves as a symbol of our appreciation for those of you who have chosen to wear the ‘cloth of the nation,’” stated Admiral Clark. Following the keynote address was a moment of silence to the song “Taps.” “Value Pillars” are positioned around the courtyard to honor the sacrifice and legacy of family, friends and comrades. Donors of each pillar chose a value and a quote or scripture verse in honor of a loved one. A ceremony unveiled the pillars which represented “Honor” - Kenneth E. Gail, USN “Gratitude” “The Veterans Courtyard of Honor stands as a beacon to say to our veterans, ‘welcome home. Thank you for your service. You are not alone. We pray for your peace and for the day when wars will be no more,’” stated President Taylor. A very touching moment was during the Service Melody as veterans stood to the melody from their branch of service. Other highlights of the ceremony included the Presentation of the Colors by USMC Color Guard Mag 39 and the national anthem sung by VU student Caitlin Barney ’13, the invocation by Chaplain Captain David Sarmiento, USAF. The Challenge Coin Ceremony was another special moment in which VU honored each of their graduating veteran students by presenting them with a unique Vanguard University Challenge Coin. Dating back to WWI, challenge coins are traditionally carried by military members to display pride and recognition. The event concluded with the unveiling of the pillars and benediction by Chaplain David Brooks, Costa Mesa PD, Ret, Police Captain and Vietnam Veteran. Distinguished guests in the crowd also included Fred and Ruth Waugh, Jack Hammett, Edison Miller, Adele and David Oddo, Dixie and Ed Arnold, Tessy and Col. Ron Nipper, Jack Hammett, Col. Stewart Navarre, and Don Andrews. The “Veterans Courtyard of Honor” is an enduring symbol of gratitude to honor the service of military personnel and veterans. The courtyard was created as part of VU’s commitment to honor the legacy of all veterans while preparing the next generation as they transition out of the military during this difficult economic time. The courtyard will be used to host University events and receptions. There are still naming opportunities with all proceeds going directly to Student Veteran Scholarships. A gift that honors; A gift that serves. For more information about the “Veterans Courtyard of Honor” watch this video at http://vimeo.com/ ABOUT VANGUARD UNIVERSITY Vanguard University is a private, Christian, comprehensive university of liberal arts and professional studies equipping students for a Spirit-empowered life of Christ-centered leadership and service. The U.S. News & World Report has ranked Vanguard among the best baccalaureate colleges in the west in their 2011-2012 rankings of colleges and universities and The Princeton Review named VU a 2011-2012 “Best in the West” College. Vanguard is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). www.vanguard.edu. PHOTO IDENTIFICATIONS (L-R) (Photo by David Ahntholz): Brent Theobald Admiral Vernon E. Clark Former Chief of Naval Operations, VU Board Member Dr. Carol Taylor INQURIES: Brent Theobald Kelly Kannwischer (714) 966-5451 kelly.kannwischer@ End
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