Dear Members of the Monmouth University Community:
At the 11th hour of the day, on the 11th day of the month, in the 11th month of every year our nation comes together to remember all the men and women who have safeguarded our freedoms through their service in our armed forces. We call it, of course, Veterans Day.
In this year it is perhaps particularly important that we pause to celebrate this day. In the aftermath of a long and at times contentious election cycle, Veterans Day is a day of national unity, providing an opportunity for all Americans to celebrate the sacrifices made by our fellow citizens in protecting our country.
As members of a shared university community, we should take this unique opportunity to reiterate two of our fundamental values here at Monmouth University, inspired by our rights as a nation that so many have fought to protect. First, we will continue to defend the rights of individuals to express themselves, even if their comments are deemed controversial by some. And, second, the expression of opinions on this campus must be offered in a respectful manner, recognizing, and even celebrating the diversity that is representative of Monmouth University. Together, these values—free expression and strong community—are fundamental to the mission of every American university.
So, as we celebrate our nation’s veterans and the sacrifices that they have made for us, let us reaffirm our dedication to fostering greater understanding in an environment of mutual respect here in our small part of the country.
Please join us today in Anacon Hall at 11 a.m. as we gather with the Monmouth University Student Veterans Association to recognize the contributions of military service members within our campus community, and listen as student veterans share stories from their time in service. Additionally, we will toll the bells at 11 a.m., recalling the armistice that concluded World War I. This act of remembrance symbolizes our ongoing gratitude for all veterans and their families and recognizes the sacrifices they all have made.
Sincerely,
Dr. Patrick F. Leahy
President