SU alumni

Hometown Hero: Dr. Don Cantwell, ’47, G’48

United States Navy World War II veteran, two-time Syracuse University alum, and renowned musician Don Cantwell was born in Poughkeepsie, New York in 1924 and graduated from Poughkeepsie High School in 1942. He attended St Lawrence University Navy V12 Officers Training Program from 1943-44 and later Notre Dame University’s Navy Midshipman School in 1944. Don attended the U.S. Navy School of Music in Washington, DC, in 1945 and later served with the Navy Flag Band Mediterranean Fleet before being discharged in 1945.

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Valentine’s Day Stories From the Military-Connected Community

Building a long-lasting and meaningful relationship, especially a romantic one, takes a lot of time and effort. Even more so when trying to maintain a relationship while serving in the military. A few of the University’s married military-connected couples shared what challenges they faced, and the benefits of their commitment to one another.

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Syracuse ROTC | Where Are They Now?

The Stalwart Battalion at Syracuse University can trace its roots back to the earliest days of Syracuse University’s historic commitment to veterans. During World War I the Student Army Training Corps, which was the precursor to today’s Reserve Officer Training Corps, began educating students for crucial roles in military service.

‘Black Heel Strings: A Choptank Memoir’ Named 2023 Veterans Writing Award Winner

The Stalwart Battalion at Syracuse University can trace its roots back to the earliest days of Syracuse University’s historic commitment to veterans. During World War I the Student Army Training Corps, which was the precursor to today’s Reserve Officer Training Corps, began educating students for crucial roles in military service.

Tillman Scholar: Luis Weierbach’s Inspiring Journey of Service and Advocacy

“I believe that we are as strong as our weakest moment and the grit we summon to wrestle through it.”

Luis “Lu” Weierbach was born in Mays Landing, New Jersey. He grew up poor in the Bronx and Washington Heights before finding a home and community in rural Hoosick Falls, New York. A New York State champion in wrestling in high school, he was recruited to West Point.

Lu commissioned as an active duty infantry officer in 2018. He became airborne qualified before being stationed at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. While at Schofield Barracks, Lu led a light infantry platoon in Thailand and Korea. He also served as a company executive officer and battalion logistics officer.

Lu is now pursuing a law degree at Syracuse University College of Law. He is motivated to continue service as an advocate in the courtroom for soldiers and later to underserved youth. Lu also aims to be an ambassador of the sport of wrestling through non-profit such as Beat the Streets and prevent youth from entering the justice system in the first place by providing them with a healthy outlet. He lives on a homestead in central New York with his wife and two cats.

Air Force ROTC Cadet Emily Weaver ’24 Continues Family Tradition of Service

According to the Department of Defense, interest in military service is on the decline among the nation’s youth, especially those who are qualified for military service. Only 9% indicated they would likely serve in the military; such a low percentage hasn’t been experienced since the months leading up to the 2008 financial crisis.