Kent State University showed its appreciation to military members by hosting a hospitality chalet for veterans, service members and their families during the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone Country Club in Akron on Aug. 5-9.
“Some of our Kent State family members are among those who made the ultimate sacrifice — including graduates who served in World War II and in Vietnam as well as our most recent family members serving in Afghanistan,” said Kent State President Beverly Warren. “They include stories of young people called to action – a calling of the heart, a need to give back, a fierce sense of responsibility and a competitive spirit that made them the best of the best.”
Warren spoke to military members and their families as part of a swearing-in ceremony for dozens of new members of the U.S. Army and Air Force on Aug. 8 at Firestone Country Club. She emphasized the university’s commitment to strong ROTC programs for future military leaders as well as a continued commitment to those who have served.
In attendance were family members of Army 1st Lt. Ashley White-Stumpf and Spc. Adam Hamilton, both of whom were killed in Afghanistan in 2011. White graduated from Kent State and excelled as part of the university’s ROTC program. Hamilton graduated from Kent Roosevelt High School and enlisted in 2009.
“Ashley, Adam and all those who gave their lives for their country have affirmed what we are here to recognize today: that average citizens can and do transform into superheroes and heroines,” Warren said. “We must never take for granted those who guard our freedom; the family, friends and colleagues who hold them in their hearts; and the great privilege of living in a democracy.”
G.I. Jobs included Kent State on its roster of Military Friendly Schools for 2015, the sixth consecutive year that the university was recognized by the magazine. In keeping with that status, and in compliance with House Bill 488, the Kent State Board of Trustees established a university policy focused on providing support and assistance for students who are current members of the military or who are military veterans.
Located next to the 14th green at Firestone Country Club, the Birdies for the Brave® Patriots’ Outpost sponsored by Kent State offered military guests complimentary food and beverages and a relaxing venue for viewing the tournament.
The Outpost is part of Birdies for the Brave, a national military outreach initiative proudly supported by the PGA TOUR, which is dedicated to honoring and showing appreciation to the courageous members of U.S. Armed Forces and their families. Veterans received complimentary tickets for themselves and discounted tickets for family members.
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