Campus celebrates the military

By Quinn Foley

Office responsible for armed forces outreach hosts time of appreciation

Military Emphasis Week (MEW) is a time when Liberty University faculty and students have an opportunity to pause and appreciate those who have served and are still serving in the U.S. Military. This year, MEW is being held Monday, Nov. 3 through Saturday, Nov. 8, and there are many events going on around campus to recognize these military personnel and veterans.

According to the office of Military Affairs website, MEW has been something that Liberty has expanded on since it was first started.

“Military Emphasis Week was once a one-day event on campus and has now been expanded to a week-long event in order to give greater visibility, support and recognition to our military and veterans,” the Military Affairs website states.

According to the website, events are during the week include a care package drive taking place Nov. 3, 5 and 7, a military tailgate and football game Nov. 8, a military appreciation hockey game Nov. 8 and a special Military Convocation Nov. 5.

“One highlight of Military Emphasis Week is the patriotic Convocation, occurring the Wednesday closest to Veteran’s Day and featuring patriotic music, veteran testimonies and an inspirational message from a Christian combat veteran,” Edinger said.

Convocation is always followed with a veterans’ reception, which allows for a time of camaraderie and includes a specially planned menu.

According to the website, the veterans’ reception will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the main level banquet room in the Hancock Welcome Center. This event is open to Liberty faculty, staff and students who are veterans of or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

“This year, MEW added some events, such as online Military Appreciation Day, so our online students and families feel connected to LU even though they aren’t on campus,” Edinger said. “Each event is very special, and we have taken extra steps to improve on what we have done in past years.”

One thing that has not changed,however, is the main purpose of MEW.

“At Liberty University, we have always had a heart for those serving in our Armed Forces and do not take for granted the sacrifice they make to secure our nation’s values and freedoms,” Edinger said.

Foley is a news reporter.