Southeast Missouri State University will host its annual Patriot Day Ceremony on Thursday, September 11, from 7:35–8:30 a.m. in front of Academic Hall, bringing together students, faculty, staff and the community to honor first responders, military service members, veterans, and the lives lost on September 11, 2001.
Hosted by SEMO’s Office of Military and Veteran Services, the ceremony reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to supporting those who serve in any capacity while providing the community and students with a moment of remembrance, unity and reflection.
“This day in history is a call to action,” said Amanda Woods, military and veterans’ services officer at SEMO. “We choose to build resiliency with each moment and each choice, both in how we live our lives and how we serve each other. Education is no different. Our students are shaping the world, so it is our responsibility to help guide and empower them, enabling them to commit to serving one another."
For today’s students, most of whom were not yet born in 2001, the ceremony also serves as an important educational opportunity.
“Patriot Day is about helping them understand the impact of 9/11 and encouraging them to carry forward a spirit of service in their own lives,” said Woods. “We come together as a community and as a nation to reflect on our shared loss and recommit ourselves to the values that rose from the ashes of that dark morning: perseverance, unity and resilience.”
The public is invited to attend this free event, which will feature participation from Cape Girardeau County first responders, SEMO students, faculty and staff. This year’s program will also include a performance of the national anthem by Southeast’s trumpet majors, highlighting student involvement in honoring this national day of remembrance.