The University of North Texas (UNT) and Texas Woman’s University (TWU) commemorated Veterans Day with a ceremony on the Denton County courthouse square. This annual event, co-hosted by the universities for the past 15 years, attracted veterans, families, and local community members.
Participants in the ceremony included members of the UNT Army ROTC and Air Force ROTC programs, as well as representatives from the Denton County Veteran Services Office, UNT Student Veteran Services, and TWU. The event featured a bagpiper presentation by the Denton Fire Department and a wreath-laying ceremony. Remarks were delivered by guest speakers, including UNT President Dr. Harrison Keller, a former United States Navy Reserve member.
In his speech, Dr. Keller emphasized the university’s dedication to supporting the military community. “We honor our veterans today and every day. Their sacrifices and contributions remind us of what it truly means to serve others and make a difference in the world,” he stated.
UNT’s Student Veteran Services office supports over 3,000 student veterans each semester, providing a range of resources such as enrollment support, veterans’ benefit assistance, and mentoring opportunities. The office also runs specific programs like the SALUTE Honor Society and a graduation ceremony tailored for veterans.
James Davenport, director of UNT Student Veteran Services and a retired U.S. Army veteran, highlighted the university’s supportive environment for veterans. “The office is a place of comfort for veterans as they transition from service members to their new identities as UNT student veterans,” Davenport shared.
UNT’s commitment to veteran education was acknowledged with the third Gold Veterans Education Excellence Recognition Award (VEERA) from the Texas Veterans Commission, recognizing exceptional educational assistance programs for veterans.
Additionally, the UNT College of Music hosted a performance by the U.S. Army Field Band ahead of Veterans Day, marking the band’s 75th anniversary. Notably, five band members are UNT alumni and active military officers, including Master Sgt. Phillip Kennedy Johnson and Staff Sgt. Nathan Little.
Little, a former UNT music performance major, credited his experience with the North Texas Wind Symphony for preparing him for both musical and military careers. “Playing in the U.S. Army Field Band comes with a shared responsibility and stewardship that I really enjoy,” Little remarked.
The Veterans Day ceremony and associated events underscore UNT’s ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and fostering a welcoming community for its military students.