by Jawana Kamal (Intern, Student Affairs Marketing and Communications)

On Monday, Nov. 11, the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Student Affairs division and Veterans Services hosted its annual Wreath Laying Ceremony in honor of Veterans Day. The event took place from 12 to 1 p.m. in the Hill Student Center Ballrooms.

This year’s ceremony featured keynote speaker Dr. George “Fred” Frederick. Frederick retired in 2013 after twenty-seven years in the United States Army to serve as a recruiting officer for colleges and universities. He is the Director of Military & Veteran Services at Georgia Southern University.

Frederick emphasized the importance of honoring veterans and their family members for their service and unwavering dedication to the United States. He discussed how providing assistance to veterans is crucial for ensuring education and job retention, thereby combatting issues like homelessness and suicide. He urged the crowd to recognize the lasting impact and resilience of the military community across all generations.

"The reason we're the greatest nation in the world is due in large part to our veterans. They are the fabric of America,” said Frederick. “They come from all parts of America. All cultures, all races. Big cities, little towns. They come and serve and make a difference for us. That's the thread of America: our veterans.”

UAB ROTC’s Color Guard presented the Posting of the Colors, which was followed by a performance of the national anthem and “America the Beautiful,” by retired Bessemer Chief of Police, Nathaniel Rutledge. Other speakers included Professor of Military Science LTC Jamaine J. Williams and UAB Director of Veteran Services Walter C. Stewart III.

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