Texas A&M University-Commerce is gearing up to celebrate the 33rd annual Veterans Vigil on November 9, as part of its ongoing commitment to honor the nation's veterans. The event will be held on the A&M-Commerce campus and welcomes the local community, with a special invitation extended to veterans and their families.
The day's events will unfold as follows:
Veterans Breakfast (10:00 a.m.)
The day will kick off with a light breakfast reception at 10 a.m. on the second floor of the Rayburn Student Center (RSC).
Opening Ceremony (10:30 a.m.)
The opening ceremony will commence at 10:30 a.m. inside the RSC Conference Rooms. The Princeton High School Navy JROTC will present the colors, and the A&M-Commerce Chorale and members of the “Pride” Marching Band will participate. The special guest speaker for the opening ceremony will be Chief Master Sergeant Vance Michael Clarke, U.S. Air Force (ret.).
Vigil Flame Lighting (Time TBD)
Following the opening ceremony, the event will move outside to the Vigil Flame. Dr. Robert Rankin, an Assistant Professor of Accounting at A&M-Commerce and a U.S. Army veteran, will light the Vigil Flame.
Closing Ceremony (4:30 p.m.)
The closing ceremony will take place at the Vigil Flame and will include a 21-gun salute by the Hunt County Veterans Honor Guard.
Veterans Appreciation (November 10)
On November 10, veterans can enjoy a free lunch at the Lions Mane Cafeteria as a token of appreciation. Additionally, veterans will receive a 10% discount at the university bookstore from November 8 to 10. To avail of these offers, veterans must present a valid Military ID, DD214, Veteran's card, VFW, or American Legion card.
