Saluting Heroes: UIW's Veterans Day Tribute

During Veterans Day, citizens across the country recognized the past and continued efforts of active-duty military members and veterans who have proudly served in the United States Armed Forces. At the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW), 21% of the student population are military affiliated, giving the institution the responsibility and privilege of serving our nation’s heroes who now call UIW home.

From Nov. 9-11, UIW commemorated Veterans Day with special events and recognitions.

The week kicked off with the exciting announcement that UIW is ranked the No. 1 “Best for Vets” College by Military Times Magazine for the second consecutive year. The rankings are the largest and most comprehensive annual list recognizing the top colleges and universities for military service members and veterans. Based on rigorous analysis from Military Times, a notable 304 schools made this year’s list, with UIW remaining in the top spot.

To receive this title for a second year in a row is a reflection of the institution’s ongoing dedication toward supporting military connected students as they pursue their education and career goals.

On Saturday, Nov. 9 UIW participated in the official City of San Antonio Veterans Day Parade. The parade is one of the city’s long-standing traditions and welcomes local military-affiliated organizations to decorate Downtown San Antonio in a vibrant array of red, white and blue each year.

Jonathan Lovejoy, senior director for UIW Military and Veterans Affairs, Dr. Dimitri Tamalis, interim provost, and other University community members carried a banner that read, “UIW Ranked #1 in the USA Best for Vets by Military Times Magazine.” Their proud smiles conveyed how honored the entire UIW community is by the ranking, and the privilege it is to give back to those who served.

“UIW was proud to take part in the 22nd annual San Antonio Veterans Day Parade,” shared Byron Perez, director of the Military and Veteran Center. “It was great to see so many supporters lining the streets of downtown San Antonio. UIW was honored to extend an invitation to the JROTCs from Alamo Heights and Saint Anthony Catholic High School. We were thrilled to have them leading our truck and trailer in the parade with their color guard and marching formation. As a combat veteran myself, it was great to offer my thanks to all the veterans who were there to enjoy the parade.”

The celebration concluded on Monday, Nov. 11 with the University’s annual Veterans Day ceremony in the Student Engagement Center Ballroom. Prayers and stories were shared, UIW Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) cadets demonstrated a wreath laying and traditional flag folding ceremony and members of each branch of the military were invited to stand as their respective songs were played. Veterans from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Space Force were all honored.

“The University of Incarnate Word is deeply proud of its enduring commitment to the military community, rooted in our Mission and ministry and showcased by our exceptional Veterans Affairs team and our highly capable and distinguished faculty,” said Phillip Lopes, associate vice president for Planning and Campus Facilities Management and U.S. veteran. “Our core values of education, truth, faith, service and innovation are deeply intertwined within the celebration of Veterans Day. UIW is dedicated to providing educational opportunities and resources to help veterans, active duty, reserve and guard members achieve their academic and professional goals, all within an inspiring and faith-based academic community.”