Oh, say! Does that Star-Spangled Banner yet wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
These were part of the lyrics sang by honored Veterans and coordinators during NIC’s annual Veterans Day Luncheon. Students and faculty who have served our country shared a memorable buffet lunch put on by NIC’s Veterans club in the Edminster Student Union Building.
Prisoners Of War/ Missing in Action moderator, Will Nieman conveyed his respect to NIC guests.
“Walking in, you may have noticed a table at the front,” Nieman said. “It’s reserved to honor our missing comrades in arms,”
Set with five empty chairs, the seats represented the missing Americans from each of the five services: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard.
The crowd remained quiet and courteous throughout the representation.
“This Honor’s ceremony symbolizes that they are with us here in spirit,” Nieman said. “Some in this room were very young when they were sent into combat; however, all Americans should never forget the brave men and women who answered our nations call and served.”
Nods of acknowledgment and understanding were seen around the room.
Tables were decorated with white tableclothes to symbolize the purity of their motives when answering the call to serve. Flags were presented and some people wore their military uniform.
The luncheon was not only provided to NIC veterans’ students; also faculty, community members and relatives participated to offer admiration and honor to their colleagues.
Individuals part taking in their meals sat around tables and conversed with one another as they enjoyed their free meal.
“I know a few people who are vets. My dad served in operation Desert Storm for two years,” student Jared Hunt, 19, said. “It’s important we honor those who have sacrificed their time and lives for our country.”
Glasses were raised in a toast to honor America’s prisoners of War and Missing in Action and to the success of the efforts made to account for them.
People came and went, yet remained thoughtful, sincere and respectful during the buffet.
“I think it’s important that we remember those who served and keep them in our thoughts during Veterans Day,” said Jessica Doll, computer science, Spokane whose uncle served in the Army.
The luncheon, organized by the Veterans Club, lasted roughly two hours and served nearly 75 veterans.
Veterans Services Advisor and retired vet Carl George encouraged students to be a part of the Veterans Club.
“It’s just like any other club,” George said. “You don’t have to be a veteran in order to join. You can join anytime.”
NIC has approximately 260 veterans who are currently receiving credits. The college’s students and staff remember those who have fallen, who have fought for our freedom and continue to thank those currently serving.
