Erie, Pa. – Mercyhurst University welcomed the campus and surrounding community to its annual Celebration of Valor on Friday, Nov. 6, honoring veterans and service members in a dignified, faith‑centered ceremony.

Flag‑raising and solemn tribute

The day began at 8 a.m. with the Mercyhurst University Army ROTC Cadet Color Guard, known as the “Pride of PA,” raising the Stars and Stripes in front of Old Main. A ceremonial cannon fired as the national anthem, led by student Sophia Mazzocco, filled the crisp morning air.

Music for veterans and a Fallen Soldier ceremony

Inside the Mercy Heritage Room, local nonprofit Music for Veterans provided live performances, creating a supportive musical environment for those who have served. The ROTC Color Guard then conducted a Fallen Soldier Ceremony, honoring prisoners of war, those missing in action, and the fallen. Student Rowen Oakley played “Taps,” underscoring the solemnity of the moment.

Prayer, remarks, and a message of gratitude

Dr. Greg Baker, vice president for mission, led an opening prayer, inviting attendees to reflect on the freedoms secured by military service. Interim provost Dr. Florentine Hoelker followed with welcoming remarks that recognized veterans across the Mercyhurst community and beyond.

Guest speaker Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Genard, professor of military science at Gannon University, delivered an address titled “Eternal Thanks for Temporary Service.” LTC Genard reminded listeners that everyday liberties are owed to veterans’ commitment to core values, stating, “They provide year‑round support, and our thanks must be lasting.”

Community involvement and longstanding tradition

Veterans Service Coordinator Chris Popa highlighted Mercyhurst’s more than 20‑year tradition of honoring its veteran community. The event also paid tribute to prisoners of war and those still missing in action, displaying the black‑and‑white POW/MIA flag with the words “You Are Not Forgotten.”

The Kiwanis Club of Erie supplied the American flags used for the ceremony, and ROTC cadets Derek Bly, Will Capizzi, Cade Driscoll, Luke Ludwig, Esteban Gonzalez, Zachary Matthews, James Neal, and Nathan Stone helped ensure the program ran smoothly.

Looking ahead

Organizers invited all community members to continue honoring those who served this Veterans Day and throughout the year. The Celebration of Valor remains a cherished expression of gratitude, faith, and patriotism for Mercyhurst and the Erie region.

Original reporting: Mercyhurst University News (Erie) – stopgap — read the source article.