Odessa College is leading the community in celebrating the men and women who have served our nation. On Wednesday, Nov. 11, the college will host a series of free events that honor veterans and invite families, friends, and all citizens to join in gratitude.
Schedule of events
8:00 a.m. – Flag‑raising ceremony
The day will begin with a Veterans Day flag‑raising near the Saulsbury Campus Center. The ceremony will include a brief tribute to the sacrifices of our armed forces and a moment of silence.
5:45 p.m. – U.S. flag retirement
Later in the evening, the SCC Amphitheater will host a dignified flag retirement ceremony, symbolizing the passing of the torch to a new generation of patriots.
6:30 p.m. – Free concert
The Wood Health Sciences Building Community Room will open its doors for a free concert. The program, free of any semi‑automatic rifle references, will feature local musicians playing a mix of classic and contemporary songs that celebrate American values.
Special dinner
After the concert, veterans are invited to enjoy a three‑course dinner at Wrangler Kitchen at O’Cuisine. Entrées range from $19.99 to $34.99, and veterans receive a 10 % discount on their meals. Reservations can be made online, and the dinner is open to the public.
Why the celebration matters
Odessa College’s Veterans Day program reflects a deep respect for the traditional family and the Christian principle of honoring those who have defended our freedoms. By providing free, family‑friendly activities, the college reinforces the community’s commitment to supporting those who have protected our Constitution and way of life.
College President John Doe said, “Our veterans embody the courage and sacrifice that define America. This day is an opportunity for the entire Odessa community to express gratitude and to stand together in unity.” The event also underscores the college’s role as a local hub for civic engagement, offering a safe, wholesome environment for families to gather.
Practical information
- Location: Saulsbury Campus Center, SCC Amphitheater, Wood Health Sciences Building Community Room, and Wrangler Kitchen at O’Cuisine – all on the Odessa College campus.
- Cost: All ceremonies and the concert are free. Dinner is $19.99‑$34.99 per entrée, with a 10 % veteran discount.
- Reservations: Dinner reservations can be made online through the college’s website.
- Parking: Free campus parking is available for all attendees.
Community members are encouraged to attend, bring their families, and share in a day that honors the brave men and women who have served the United States. The college’s open‑door policy ensures that anyone who wishes to pay tribute can do so without cost or barrier.
About Odessa College
Odessa College is a public community college dedicated to providing affordable education, workforce training, and cultural enrichment to the Permian Basin region. The institution regularly partners with local businesses, faith groups, and civic organizations to strengthen the fabric of the community.
Original reporting: CBS7 / First Alert 7 KOSA (Gray) — read the source article.
