November 10, 2023
Dear members of the Connecticut College community,
Veterans Day is tomorrow, Nov. 11. This is a special federal holiday observed annually to honor those who have served in the U.S. military. Formerly known as Armistice Day, the holiday was created to recognize the end of World War I on Nov. 11, 1918, but the name was changed to Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize American veterans of all wars.
Connecticut College has a long tradition of supporting those who have served in the military. The College’s first graduating class—in 1919—was involved in the first national observance of the holiday, and we have a number of staff, faculty, students and alumni today who are veterans. Given our close proximity to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy across the street, the Conn community has an even more direct relationship to this kind of service.
Many of you know that I am an Army Dad. I’ve met many of my son’s comrades, many who are now veterans. My son and I take a special moment every Veteran’s Day to exchange notes to remember and honor veterans. I also spent a number of years providing counseling services to Vietnam vets, which was a special era of my life to help my generation of veterans. I remain quite proud to have served them.
Please take a moment to honor veterans you know, many of whom may be family members and close friends. It is a special day for all of us. Thank you, and my appreciation and respect go out to our veterans of Connecticut College.
Yours,
Les Wong, Ph.D.
Interim President