Honoring Our Veterans
The Dean College Veterans Day Ceremony was held on Monday, November 11, 2019, in front of the College’s War Memorial on campus. Dean College President Dr. Paula Rooney called the event to order, asking the audience to honor our service members, to remember their courage and dedication, and to thank them for the sacrifices that they have made for our country.
Following a student performance of the national anthem, Dr. Rooney delivered remarks, noting the history of the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, the day that major combat in World War I ended. Once called Armistice Day, November 11th was a day to honor all the heroes that died in World War I. The name of the holiday later changed to Veterans Day, to honor all who served and are serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Dr. Rooney reflected on the stories of the individuals whose names are engraved on the College’s War Memorial, which is dedicated to the abiding memory of the service of the sons and daughters of Dean Academy in the World War, 1914-1918. One of those stories belongs to Edward “Eddie” Leslie Grant, a Major League Baseball player who was one of the first men to enlist in World War I. Eddie served as a captain in the 77th Infantry Division where he died on October 5, 1918, while leading his troops on a four-day search for the Lost Battalion.
“Eddie’s story is one of many,” said Dr. Rooney. “Not only do the names engraved behind me have a story, but also veterans across America. Each a hero, who has made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.”
Guest speaker of the ceremony was Mary Clermont, an accomplished veteran who served in the United States military prior to being honorably discharged in June 1990 to pursue a career in business. She is currently the chief people officer at Innovations, LLC in Franklin where she creates strategies, policies and programs to simplify and empower the human experience. Mary thanked fellow veterans for their service and spoke about her time served.
Following remarks, guests were asked to reflect on each conflict with a moment of silence as roses representing each were placed on a single wreath in honor of our veterans.
Dean College is proud of all who have served our nation. We cannot thank you enough for all that you have done.