SJC Long Island is providing students, staff and faculty next week with plenty of opportunities to recognize veterans for their military service.
The campus’ annual Veterans Awareness Week, sponsored by the Student Veterans of America (SVA) and the Office of Military and Veteran Services, kicks off on Veterans Day on Monday and features events on campus through Thursday, and an event at Patchogue’s VFW Hall Friday night.
The events on campus will offer lunch and be held during common hour, 12:40-1:35 p.m.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening:
Monday: Annual Veterans Day Celebration in the McGann Conference Center
Every veteran in attendance will be individually recognized for their military service and receive a 2019 College Challenge Coin. Attendees are encouraged to wear red, white and blue.
Tuesday: Student Veterans Panel in the Shea Conference Room
Hear from students who served their country in the military. Speakers include SVA President George Poulos and Shannon Towle, the surviving spouse of an Air Force service member who died during active duty.
Wednesday: SVA Membership PUSH/Veterans Resource Center Open House
Members of the campus community are invited to meet the SVA officers and learn about the Veterans Resource Center (VRC).
Thursday: Sharing the Life of a Local Hero in the McGann Conference Center
Daniel Murphy, father of Lt. Michael Murphy, who received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the war in Afghanistan, will share stories about his son. Murphy grew up in Patchogue and joined the U.S. Navy SEALs after graduating from college. He was killed in action in Afghanistan in June 2005.
Friday: Fourth Annual Veterans Ball in VFW Post 2913, 32 Edwards St. in Patchogue, 7-11 p.m.
You can purchase tickets at the VRC for a night of dinner, dancing and raffles.