For more than a decade, New Mexico State University has hosted an annual Military and Veterans Appreciation Week to honor students, faculty and staff who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Source: U.S. Army White Sands Missile Range (via Facebook)
Photos: Courtesy
White Sands Missile Range Garrison Commander Col. Michael A. Lueckeman was the guest speaker at a Las Cruces Military and Veterans Appreciation week kickoff at New Mexico State University Nov. 9.
For more than a decade, New Mexico State University has hosted an annual Military and Veterans Appreciation Week to honor students, faculty and staff who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. This year, the 11th annual celebration will be held from Nov. 7-13.
“Thank you for your leadership, your commitment to New Mexico State Veterans, military families, ROTC cadets,” Lueckeman said. “The support that you and your team provide help ensure that those who have served our nation continue to find opportunities to succeed. Thank you.”
Retired Army Brig. Gen. Eric L. Sanchez, and a former WSMR Commander, was also featured at the opening ceremony on campus at Aggie Memorial Tower.
Lueckeman thanked Hector Sanchez, Director of Military and Veterans Programs at NMSU, and the team at NMSU.
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“I am humbled and honored to be here, at this great campus, as we begin Military and Veterans Appreciation week. I am a very proud Aggie graduate. It’s always great to be back here surrounded by great people.”
Lueckeman also administered the oath of office to ROTC cadet Aaron Acosta during the kickoff ceremony.
“This week is more than a ceremonial observance. It is a recognition of service, sacrifice and the enduring bond between New Mexico State, our community and our military,” Lueckeman said. “For generations this university has produced leaders that have served our nation with honor. I know firsthand the impact that NMSU can have. Before I ever wore this uniform here (U.S. Army) I wore an Aggie jersey. As a student athlete here, I learned the importance of teamwork, dedication, discipline, and resilience. Those lessons have stayed with me long after graduation. It became the foundation that I relied on throughout my Army career. I’m grateful for this university, I’m grateful for this community.”
“Recognizing veterans on campus reminds us that our university is not just a place of learning, but a community of gratitude, respect and belonging. Veterans bring leadership, resilience, discipline and invaluable life experiences that enrich our campus and inspire future generations,” said Erika Zaragoza, Military and Veterans Programs coordinator.
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