GLENVILLE, W.Va. – Glenville State University today observed Veterans Day on campus with a number of events.

A wreath-laying ceremony was held in the Mollohan Campus Community Center Ballroom. Members of Glenville State’s Student Veterans Association and members of VFW Post 5469 served as flag bearers during the ceremony. Glenville State University President Dr. Mark A. Manchin gave remarks to the crowd, which included members of the campus community, several of whom were veterans or active duty military. Members of the Glenville State University choir sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful.” Music student Christopher Chambers played taps for the wreath-laying.

U.S. Army Special Forces Master Sergeant (Retired) Andy Marchal was the special guest at the event and gave brief remarks.

Marchal, who attended with members of his family, is a former Glenville State student who took part in the combat operations that are detailed in the book Horse Soldiers and the subsequent 2018 film adaptation, 12 Strong. He was honored with a Special Recognition award by the Glenville State University Alumni Association in 2019.

“As we come together on this eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month, we remember that freedom is not free,” said Manchin. “Events like these are so important to Glenville State University, our communities, and our nation. Every day is Veterans Day and we should take the time to express gratitude to our veterans for their sacrifice and service to this country. We truly owe these brave men and women – our United States veterans – a debt of gratitude, and it is in that spirit that we gather today.”

A reception took place following the ceremony. Glenville State’s Student Veterans Association had a symbolic “Fallen Comrade Table” on display as part of the reception.

The events, which were originally scheduled to take place near the campus war memorial, were moved indoors due to inclement weather. The Veterans Day events were organized by Glenville State University’s Veteran Services office.

For more information about Veteran Services at Glenville State, call (304) 462-6155.