New Mexico State University is once again honoring the men and women who have served our nation. The 11th annual Military and Veterans Appreciation Week will take place Nov. 7‑13 in Las Cruces, offering a series of events that celebrate the contributions of veterans, active‑duty service members, ROTC cadets and their families.
Parade kicks off the week
On Saturday, Nov. 7, the Las Cruces Veterans Day Parade will roll through downtown at 11 a.m. NMSU’s Army and Air Force ROTC units will march in the procession. This year’s theme, “Honoring 250 Years of Military Service,” highlights the long tradition of American armed‑forces service.
Campus ceremonies and speakers
The opening ceremony is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 9, at 10 a.m. on the Aggie Memorial Tower. Retired Army Brig. Gen. Eric L. Sanchez and White Sands Missile Range Garrison Commander Col. Michael A. Lueckeman will address the crowd, underscoring the leadership and resilience veterans bring to the university community.
Mid‑week events for students and families
Tuesday, Nov. 10, the Corbett Center Student Union will host three simultaneous events from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: a tribute to Vietnam War veterans, an ROTC/Armed Forces Recruiters Day, and a Veterans Day Celebration. Coordinator Erika Zaragoza emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans and honoring their lasting legacy.
Wednesday, Nov. 11, the Military and Veterans Programs office will hold an open house in Room 244 of the Corbett Center, offering information about MVP services and a chance to meet staff. Light refreshments, pizza and popcorn will be provided.
On Thursday, Nov. 12, a free Veterans Day Picnic will be held in the Garcia Center courtyard from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jim Bobs BBQ will supply the food, and local veteran service organizations, including the Las Cruces Vet Center mobile van, will staff information tables.
Closing banquet honors faculty and staff
The week will conclude with an invitation‑only banquet on Friday, Nov. 13, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Fulton Center’s Villanueva Victory Club. Retired Brig. Gen. Jamison Herrera, Secretary of the New Mexico Department of Veteran Services, will be the guest speaker, recognizing the contributions of NMSU faculty and staff who have served.
For more details, call 575‑646‑4524 or email [email protected]. The event series reflects NMSU’s commitment to gratitude, respect and community belonging for those who have defended our freedoms.
Original reporting: Organ Mountain News (Las Cruces / Doña Ana County) — read the source article.
