FARMINGTON — The University of Maine at Farmington [UMF] hosted its second annual Veterans Day “Lunch-in” on Thursday, Nov. 7. The free meal took place in The Landing and was catered by Sodexo and organized by Executive Assistant President and Veteran Brian Ellis. Veterans and their family members from UMF and the Farmington community were invited to the event. The lunch consisted of pasta, meatballs, salad, and apple pie.
UMF President Joseph McDonnell was the first speaker at the event. He recognized Veterans Day as a day set aside to honor and celebrate veterans and their service, bravery, and sacrifices. He also said that UMF serves as “a vehicle for veterans to transition from service to civilian life.” He thanked the American Legion for their efforts and support in making this event happen.
Vice Chairman of Roderick-Crosby American Legion Post #28 Stephan Bunker spoke next. He began by saying that there was a time when veterans were seldom welcome on campuses and that things have come a long way. “We’re truly neighbors now,” said Bunker.
Bunker then explained some of the history associated with Veterans Day. He shared that Nov. 11 was originally known as Armistice Day, a holiday to honor those who died in World War I, but in 1954 it was changed in the United States to become Veterans Day recognizing all veterans, past and present.
He also shared that only 1% of the American population are veterans, and that he hopes they will be continue to be recognized.
UMF President of Student Senate Conner Malone spoke as well. He said he noticed that outside of student clubs, many groups of people are not recognized. He said that he has made it his goal to recognize more identities and cultures at UMF including veterans. He also hopes to work with the American Legion in this endeavor.
Area Director and Interim Coordinator for Student Housing Duncan Farley presented a tri-colored willow tree that was donated by his parents to be planted on campus in honor of Veterans Day. The tree will be planted in the Scott Hall courtyard, outside of the dormitory that contains the veteran wing.
Tom Saviello read a journal entry from his father’s diary during his time serving as a Marine in WWII.
Farmington Police Chief Kenneth Charles spoke of his experience returning home from Desert Storm in 1992. He said he decided to use his benefits from the army to attend college and he ended up in Farmington. Even though there was recognition, he said he felt isolated in his apartment, but that he felt seen when talking with his academic counselor, Dennis, who was a veteran as well.
Charles said that bringing veterans into the community is a great idea because they often come with good work ethics and experience. Many bring their families with them as well, said Charles, which can benefit the community.
Ellis reported that there are currently 39 veterans attending UMF this year and 67 dependents of veterans. He said that when he first started his position at UMF there were only 15 veterans. Ellis also said that there are jobs and internships available for veterans and that one veteran has taken a position at Sodexo and another in the media center.
After lunch, Ellis led those interested in a tour of the new veterans’ wing in Scott Hall. The wing consists of seven single rooms, nearby bathrooms, a kitchen area, a laundry room, and a community lounge. Two students currently reside there, but others are currently considering moving in as well. The rooms are for veterans and their dependents to reside in, but a room can also be requested for a night for veteran commuters who have a late class or if there is inclement weather.
The veterans’ wing is a project that Ellis led. UMF Associate Director for Media Relations April Mulherin said, “Brian understands the needs of our veteran community and communicates with them instead of assuming.”
Ellis said that he met with all 15 veteran students one-on-one during his first year as executive assistant president to determine their wants and needs at UMF. He said that those he has spoken to just wanted something “low key,” and quiet. “They’re just happy to have a space,” said Ellis.
Ellis said that veterans currently receive half-priced meals in the dining hall, and he hopes to raise the discount in the future. He also said that he recently ordered two Purple Heart parking signs to designate parking spots for wounded veterans to use.
Cadence Pierce, a Navy and Army dependent, actuarial science major from Poland, and a resident in the veteran wing said that she thinks the space is great.
