Colorado Springs – Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) gathered students, faculty, veterans and community members on Wednesday for its annual Veterans Day wreath‑laying ceremony. The event underscores the college’s deep connection to the armed forces, with over three‑tenths of its student body linked to the military.
Personal reflections from a veteran leader
Donna Nelson, executive director of the PPSC Foundation and a former medical non‑commissioned officer, described Veterans Day as an emotional milestone. Nelson enlisted at 17, deployed to Germany, Desert Storm, Desert Shield, Fort Gordon, the Eisenhower Army Medical Center, and served in Korea before returning to Colorado. She recalled caring for enemy prisoners of war and how those experiences shaped her approach to public service.
“The only other person in my family who joined the military was my grandfather,” Nelson said. “Choosing to serve at 17 and going into combat at 20 changed my life completely. I’m very grateful I made it back and I honor the friends who did not.”
Changing public perception of veterans
Nelson noted a shift in how Americans view veterans. “Before I served, the country had not been in combat for some time, I think since the Vietnam War. Military service and veterans were taken for granted. There’s been so much since then, and more families have loved ones deployed. The country recognizes and respects veterans more now.”
Week‑long series of veteran‑focused events
Beyond the wreath‑laying, PPSC has scheduled several activities through November 16. A “Field of Flags” installation across campus allows community members to place a flag in honor of a veteran or service member. On November 13, a campus lunch series will introduce the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, helping veterans transition to civilian careers.
Thursday, Nov. 12, the college will host a Veterans Day Presentation Series from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., focusing on law and military justice. Officials say the series aims to educate students about the legal framework that protects service members and upholds the Constitution.
Encouraging students to discover hidden talents
Nelson emphasized the importance of recognizing the untapped skills veterans bring to the classroom and workplace. “You have amazing, incredible skills that you’re not even thinking of right now, but they will come out when they are needed, so do not be afraid,” she urged students.
The ceremony and accompanying events reflect PPSC’s commitment to honoring those who have served while fostering a supportive environment for current student‑veterans. By integrating veteran‑focused programming into campus life, the college hopes to strengthen ties between the military community and the broader Colorado Springs area.
For more information about upcoming veteran events, visit the Pikes Peak State College website or contact the PPSC Foundation.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
