USC has had a long legacy of supporting the military, from training U.S. Army Officers on campus to participating in Department of Defense-sponsored research and supporting the return of veterans to civilian life, according to the USC Veterans Resource Center.
“Our veteran community is something that very few universities can compete with,” USC president Carol Folt said during this year’s Veterans Day event.
The two-hour event, held Thursday afternoon at Tommy’s Place, featured guest speakers, food and comradery for veterans and those who support them.
“What I value most as a veteran is the extensive community of veterans,” said Jerick Galindez, a Navy veteran and USC alum. “We navigate challenges and celebrate victories together.”
Voluntary speakers were asked to share with others in attendance what a “legacy of service” means to them.
“The foundation of our legacy was formed in service, now we are further establishing it,” Galindez continued.
James Turnwall – strategic advisor of the U.S. Department of State, retired Army officer and USC alum – said the event was a “love story” of individuals dedicated to their country, emphasizing their sense of unity.
“We are joined together to celebrate this event as a Trojan family,” he said. “We don’t call it a family for nothing.”
Amongst the veterans and alumni alike, some USC students sought community and solidarity at the event.
“What motivated me to come to the event was just to be surrounded by my fellow student veteran friends,” Jimmy Phan, a sophomore, said. “We have a really tight group of veteran students here, and I just really wanted to have a shared experience.”
Phan, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps for four years, said he also appreciated the effort shown by the university to recognize veterans.
“These events get bigger and bigger every year,” Phan said. “It’ll really spotlight or showcase the veteran community here at USC, bringing more attention to us.”
Chhai Chhett, a sophomore who served four years in the Air Force, agreed with Phan’s optimism.
“I’m hoping that this event, as it grows more into the future, can allow us to have a stronger community of U.S. veterans and military for the people,” Chhett said. “It’ll give us long lasting memories of our time at USC.”