ASI hosts Breakfast with a Veteran event

November 13, 2015 | ASI

The American Studies Institute invited local and campus veterans to join them for a Breakfast with a Veteran event Nov. 11. There were 24 local veterans and 26 campus veterans, faculty, students and staff in attendance.

University students treated the veterans to breakfast to honor them for their service. Students donated more than 150 cafeteria meals from their University meal plans to give to veterans.

Senior Rachel Brackins attended the breakfast, and said she enjoyed interacting with veterans and hearing stories they told.

"My dad was in the Air Force for 20 years, so I have a soft spot for anyone affiliated with the military," Brackins said. "Being able to sit down and talk with men who sacrificed so much to ensure America's safety was an honor."

Veterans from all branches of service were represented at the event. Harley Bridger, a WWII decorated veteran, told stories of flying a B24 over 35 combat missions from Italy.

Harding student Josiah Ireland brought his grandfather, Bob Gibson, to honor him for his service.

Associate Executive Director of the American Studies Institute Kim Kirkman believes that it is important to continue supporting and thanking those who have served our country.

"It is paramount for our students to meet and spend time learning our local veterans’ stories of battles, of combat missions and their dedicated service," Kirkman said. "My hope is that our students will make connections on Veterans Day and keep these connections throughout the year."

The American Studies Institute plans to make the breakfast an annual event.