26th Annual Veterans Vigil

Texas A&M University-Commerce will host its 26^th Annual Veterans Vigil on November 9, 2017. This unique and long-standing program honors the men and women of the armed forces who answered the call to serve our nation.

“This year's Vigil is dedicated to honoring A&M University-Commerce area veterans with recognition afforded to all branches and sections of the United States military. We would like to invite everyone to attend and help us honor the day set aside to thank and honor all who served honorably in the military — in wartime or peacetime,” said Veterans & Military Coordinator, Dustin Pearson.

An Air Force Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) unit on campus conducted the ceremony from 1949 until 1991. Though there is no longer any ROTC unit on campus today, the University established a committee comprised of community leaders, faculty, staff and students to continue the tradition of the vigil.

The ceremony will include:

·         The National Anthem

·         Posting of the colors (flags)

·         Invocation

·         ASTP Scholarship Presentation

·         Remarks from Dr. Keck

·         Proclamation

·         Video Presentation

·         Processional with A&M Commerce Marching Band

·         Flame lighting

·         Presentation of plaque at the vigil site

·         Taps

·         Posting of the first guard

·         21-gun salute

·         Closing remarks (President Ray Keck)

·         Extinguishing flame

·         Retiring the colors (flag)