Veterans Day Ceremony at AU, update on Student Veteran Association
By Ian Cyr | Online editor
Over 30 people gathered around the teardrop on the Summerville campus as Military and Veteran Services hosted a Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 11.
The ceremony began with a welcome from Stefane Raulerson, the director of Military and Veteran Services, followed by a invocation, a singing of the national anthem, a short presentation on the history of Veterans Day and the Veteran Reflection.
Student Veteran Association AU chapter president Claud Bugheni also gave an update on the state of SVA here at AU.
Despite a brief break from their presence on campus because of the pandemic, Bugheni is excited about the return of the SVA and their goals for the upcoming semester.
“We want to be more involved,” said Bugheni. “Our chapter here is introducing a new program called Adopt-a-Vet which pairs students with veterans here locally. You never know what veterans are suffering with mentally, and we can do our best to help.”
Research indicates that the mental health surrounding veterans is declining, with 14%-16% of veterans suffering from PTSD and depression and the number of veteran suicides at their highest.
Bugheni said, “This program will help by providing our vets with companionship and someone to talk to. A lot of our veterans are alone and just want someone to be there with them.”
In addition to the Adopt-a-Vet program, Raulerson has a new vision for the department of Military and Veteran Services that goes beyond just paperwork.
“You can fill out paperwork anywhere. Sure, benefits are important, but is that everything we should be doing?” said Raulerson.
Raulerson is looking to provide a space for Veterans, active-duty service members and dependents alike to meet and interact with each other in spaces where their peers have similar experiences. In addition, Raulerson hopes to facilitate networking and job opportunities between students and members in the community.
Despite some rain, the event moved forward as planned and Raulerson was pleased with the turnout.
“Overall, I think today was successful,” said Raulerson. “Next year we will definitely be doing it inside.”
At top of page, flags stand in front of Payne Hall during event. (photo by Ian Cyr)
Contact Ian Cyr at ICYR@augusta.edu.
