On Friday, Nov. 11, UAB Student Affairs and Veterans Services hosted the ninth annual Wreath Laying Ceremony, in honor of Veterans Day. This event took place from 12 to 1 p.m. in the Hill Student Center Ballrooms.

Retired Brigadier General Richard B. Dix was the featured keynote speaker at this year’s ceremony. He served more than thirty years in the Armed Forces and currently works as the CEO of Blue Collar Logistics/BC Construction and Engineering Inc.

Dix reiterated the importance of the service and sacrifices provided by those within our military community. He reflected on his childhood, the historical significance of diversity in the armed forces, and how those at UAB can honor veterans year-round.

“As a kid growing up in Atlanta, I too attended parades and listened to veterans speak of their service to our great nation,” said Dix. “These events are where my dreams to serve the nation started. As a child and a high school student, I conducted hours of research because I wanted to fully understand what it meant to serve in peacetime and at time of war. Veterans day is a day that we pay tribute and reflect, but perhaps most importantly, it is a day of celebration. It is a triumph of all those who have served and are serving to keep this great nation free.”

UAB ROTC cadets presented the Posting of the Colors, followed by performances of the national anthem, “America the Beautiful” and “Amazing Grace.” Other speakers included UAB Vice President of Student Affairs John Jones III, Ph.D., retired Bessemer Police Chief Nathaniel Rutledge and UAB Director of Veteran Services Walter C. Stewart III. 

To learn more about Veteran Services and their programs and services, visit their website or follow them on Instagram @uabveterans. 

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