UIW Hosts 23rd Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

The University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) and its Military and Veteran Center "welcomes and recognizes all service members who are serving and who have served to protect the rights and freedoms of our country" (uiw.edu). Through its ongoing efforts, UIW has received a number of awards and distinctions in Veteran Education services, demonstrating its commitment towards supporting and uplifting active-duty, veteran students and their families.

On Tuesday, Nov. 11, veterans both from and beyond the Nest were honored at UIW's 23rd annual Veterans Day ceremony in the Joeris Ballroom. UIW leadership, staff, students, Sister of Charity of the Incarnate Word and more gathered to honor the years of service given and the legacies of those who have served our nation.

"We want to thank these men and women who endured hardship and separation to help keep our nation safe," expressed Right Rev. Trevor Alexander, DD, adjunct faculty and UIW's Protestant Chaplain. "They are the ones that were the front line. Those of you who have served, we want to thank you for all your sacrifices."

The ceremony featured a number of traditions including the posting of the colors by Army ROTC Cadets, the singing of "The Star-Spangled Banner", a ceremonial wreath laying in honor of fallen soldiers and a traditional flag folding ceremony. Additionally, the respective songs of each U.S. Military branch (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Space Force) were played as members stood to be applauded by their Incarnate Word community.

After the recognition of service members, the ceremony welcomed guest speaker Gilbert Lauriano, U.S. Army veteran, Bachelor of Business Administration '24 graduate and Master of Business Administration student. Lauriano reflected on his experiences of serving, his identity as a veteran and his involvement in supporting other veterans today.

"I served three deployments," shared Lauriano. "When I hung up the uniform, I thought the chapter of service was over for me, but it wasn't. It just changed uniforms. Today, I serve veterans right here in my community, through Bexar County Military and Veterans Services. I help men and women navigate the benefits they've earned, find legal work and rebuild a sense of purpose. And in doing that work, I realized this is my calling; helping others who once stood where I stood … To my brothers and sisters in arms, you don't have to wear a uniform to serve. You just have to wake up every day with the same spirit that drove you in uniform to make a difference; to protect and to serve something bigger than yourself."

The ceremony concluded with a rendition of "America the Beautiful" performed by members of UIW's Mission and Ministry.

To all the veterans within our Cardinal family and beyond, thank you for your service and sacrifice.