UCA held a Veterans Day celebration at McCastlain Hall on Nov. 3 to honor the men and women who have previously served or currently serve in the military. 

Before the ceremony, there was an informal event where sponsors and UCA ROTC held booths. The sponsors were Acxiom, U.S. Army, WoodmenLife, UCA Faculty and Staff Senate and Operation Red, White and Brave. 

At the ceremony, the UCA color guard marched in to hold the American flag for the national anthem and Pledge of Allegiance. 

President Houston Davis expressed his gratitude for those who fought for the United States.

Megan Russer received the Tidwell Scholarship, totaling $1,000. Tracy Tidwell, founder of the scholarship alongside her husband Mark said, “Megan has spent over 11 years in active duty Air Force.” 

The idea for the scholarship came to Tidwell in a unique way. 

“The scholarship came from a dream. I was in my office one day and we were trying to figure out what we can do for veterans that would be long-lasting; some little gift that we could give. The idea came up that we could do a scholarship,” Tidwell said. “The scholarship is in honor of my father, Harry Vern Midget, who served in the army. Also in honor of Mark’s father who is still alive, and served in the Air Force. These men felt strongly about their country and those who serve,” Tidwell said. 

The $500 Veterans Day scholarship was awarded to two people: army combat medic and physical education major Christopher Magee and army combat medic and biology major Emily Walsh. 

General Bradly Cox said, “The best way to honor those who have served is to do your part to make sure that any blood that was shed, any sacrifice that was made on behalf of our country is not made in vain. Our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines have selflessly given themselves to make sure our freedoms, lifestyles, the pursuit of happiness and form of government are protected. In other words, they continue to make sure that you have the opportunity to become the very best you possible.” 

Cox was the second lieutenant from Arkansas State University when he graduated with a master’s degree in operations and management and a master’s in strategic studies. 

The ceremony ended with the playing of songs from all branches of the military. When the song from each branch of the military played, those who served for that branch stood.

After the five songs played, there was a moment of silence for the fallen.