By Jenna Kersten '17
Veterans Day gives all Americans – soldiers, vets, and civilians alike – the chance to reflect upon the service and sacrifice of members of the United States military. Former Navy chaplain and current guardian of the Siena friary Fr. Mark Reamer ’83, O.F.M., called the holiday a day of “thanksgiving for veterans.”
That was the overarching message of this year’s Veterans Recognition Dinner. The annual event featured a talk by veteran and J. Crew Chief Operating Officer Jim Scully ’87. He acknowledged the sacrifice and determined character of veterans, active duty members and ROTC cadets. He also spoke about the impact his service has had on his life. “My military experience, starting with my experience here at Siena ROTC, provided me the foundation for my leadership qualities and skills,” Scully said.
Brigadier General William Martin ’78 was inducted into the Mohawk Battalion Hall of Fame during the special campus event. Martin was regular Army officer following his graduation from Siena in 1978 and as his career progressed, Martin distinguished himself through various assignments and by receiving many awards. Despite the honors, Martin was grateful for the service of others.
“I want to thank the veterans and their families for their service and their sacrifice. I want to thank the cadets in this room for their commitment to this nation and to what we stand for,” Martin said. “Finally, I want to thank Siena, and all of you, for what you’re doing to acknowledge and promote military service in this nation.”
Matthew Bullett ’15, a student in Siena’s Master of Science in Accounting program, was also honored with the 2014 Veteran Award and accounting major and second-year ROTC Cadet Colleen Oulahan ’17 received the 2014 Cadet Award.
Oulahan described how she uses Franciscan values in her daily life. “I try to hold myself to a higher standard as a leader in the ROTC setting and in the classroom,” said Oulahan, who hopes to apply those same values during a career in the United States Army.
The evening ended with the recognition of Tony Schmitz ’55. A 90-year-old World War II veteran, he served in northern Africa, Italy and France from 1942 until 1945. Schmitz has received 14 decorations and awards, including the Insignia of Chevalier of the Order of the Legion of Honor from the French government, the highest award the French can give to a foreign citizen.
“I was fortunate,” Schmitz said with a smile. “I’m very lucky.”
Siena ROTC cadet Zachary Larson ’15 summed up the emotions of the day. “Today is about the veterans. Siena has rich history of ROTC and it’s important for us to show respect for those who have served,” Larson said.
The 2014 Veterans Recognition Dinner was sponsored by Peter J. Lattimore ’68, Trustee Robert McCormick ’87, and Trustco Bank.
