Skidmore College salutes veterans

Skidmore staff, faculty, students, and retirees honored members of the armed forces at a campus Veterans Day ceremony. 

Skidmore students Annie Hageman ’23 and Wyn Jarvinen ’24 played taps as the flag was slowly raised at the ceremony attended by Skidmore veterans and many other community members.  

Parker Diggory, director of religious and spiritual life, reflected on the proximity of Veterans Day to Election Day earlier in the week. 

“The ability to vote and to do so freely is one that many have fought for, and many veterans would say the values of democracy is what made the sacrifices of their military service worthwhile,” she said.  

Professor of International Business James Kennelly spoke of the “quiet heroism” of many veterans. “It’s the highest ideals of this country that our veterans serve,” the U.S. Air Force veteran said. President Marc Conner expressed his gratitude, appreciation, and respect for all service members on behalf of Skidmore College.

Like many community members, Korie Martin, administrative assistant in the Office of Facilities, attended the ceremony to honor loved ones. Martin’s son, sister, and grandfather are among those who have served.  

“It’s meaningful for me to be here to show my pride in being part of a military family and to thank our veterans for all they have sacrificed,” she said.