Since the end of World War I, the United States has observed Nov. 11 as a day of remembrance for those who have served. Originally named Armistice Day to celebrate the end of hostilities in World War I, the day was later changed to Veterans Day by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to honor those who served in one of the nation’s most significant mobilizations of troops, World War II.
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OVMA Board Member – Gary Ginsburg – elected the 93rd National Commander
The Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.A. (JWV) is pleased to announce it has elected its 93rd National Commander, Command Sergeant Major Gary Ginsburg, USA, Retired of Rochester, NY and 5th National Vice Commander, Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CWO4) Scott P. Stevens, USA, Retired of El Paso, TX during its 129th Annual National Convention in Atlantic City, NJ.
Continue ReadingHometown Hero: Michelle Johnson
United States Army retired Sergeant Major and current Syracuse University doctoral candidate Michelle M. Johnson was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. After graduating from high school in 1992, Michelle attended Cleveland State University and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in communications. Later, she would complete her master’s degree in communications and leadership from Park University. Michelle joined the Ohio Army National in 1997 and completed basic training and advanced individual training at Ft. McClellan, Alabama, becoming a military police officer.
Continue ReadingHometown Hero: Kari Mickinkle
United States Marine Corps veteran and Syracuse University employee Kari Mickinkle was born in Syracuse, New York, raised in Sandy Creek, and resides in Chittenango with her two golden retrievers – Koda and Hooper.
Continue ReadingVeterans Day Spotlight: Student Veterans at Syracuse University
Every day might be Veterans Day at Syracuse University, but on the official holiday, the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA) is highlighting a group of student veterans who are critical to the growing community of military-connected students on campus.
Continue ReadingOn Veterans Day, We Are At Our Best When We Share Their Stories
For many Americans, Veterans Day serves as a once-a-year opportunity to recognize the tiny minority who volunteer, on behalf of the many, to serve the cause of our nation’s defense. Today there will be ceremonies, speeches, free coffee, and maybe a sale at your favorite store. If you sense that my words are tinted with a bit of cynicism regarding what’s become of our annual Veterans Day traditions, you’re right.
Continue ReadingU.S. Marine Corps Veteran Anthony Ruscitto Continues Commitment to Service Through the Law
Anthony J. Ruscitto ’22, G’23, L’27, has lived a life of service since he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at age 17. And, while he’s no longer flying in military helicopters around the world, he has landed in a place close to home where he can be a voice to those in need: the Syracuse University College of Law.
Continue ReadingHow the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA) Helps Veteran and Military-Connected Students Pursue Their Higher Ed Goals (Podcast)
Dwayne Murray, deputy director of the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA), discusses its impact on campus and around the world, explores what sets Syracuse University apart as a best place for veterans and shares his love for working with veterans and military-connected students.
Continue ReadingPacking for the Future: A Marine Supply Specialist’s Transition to College Life
One of the greatest capabilities that exist within the U.S. military is the global logistics system that allows everything from large military transport vehicles to personal hygiene items to move around the world in a timely manner, even to some of the most austere and remote environments on the planet. U.S. Marine Corps veteran Leonel Aviles ’26, or “Leo” as his friends call him, once served as a critical component in that global supply chain before coming to Syracuse University to pursue higher education.
Continue ReadingHometown Hero: Mike Frasciello
United States Air Force Veteran, Syracuse University alum, and Syracuse University’s Dean of the College of Professional Studies, Michael J. Frasciello was born in Union City, New Jersey, grew up in Hopatcong, New Jersey, and today calls Clay, New York home. Mike’s family drove his propensity to serve our nation having a grandfather and two of his brothers serve in World War II, and two other uncles serve in World War II and Korea. His family’s military service also included six of his brothers-in-law, one sister-in-law, eight nephews, and one niece who have served or are currently serving. Mike’s amazing wife, Helen, is a retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant after serving 30 years of active, reserve, and guard service.
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