Honoring Service and Sacrifice: Fourth Annual Silent March

The Fourth Annual Veterans Day Silent March will be held at Buffalo State on Thursday, November 8, at 12:10 p.m. The marchers—present or past members of the United States military or allied services, their spouses and dependents, and first responders—will proceed from Chase Hall on the Buffalo State campus to the Student Union Quad. There, a memorial ceremony will begin at 12:20 p.m. near the flags. The campus community and the public are invited to attend.

The ceremony will include a flyover, presented by the 107th Airlift Wing, New York Air National Guard, at 12:30 p.m.

The march and ceremony pay tribute to those members of the Buffalo State community who have served their country in any branch of the United States military or allied services. The ceremony honors especially those who died in that service. Most recently, alumnus Brett E. Gornewicz, ’11, died of injuries sustained when the Humvee in which he was riding was struck by an improvised explosive device in Paktiya Province, Afghanistan, on November 3. Gornewicz was a United States Army Reserve soldier assigned to the 444th Engineer Company.

“Like most military students, Brett was quietly effective, quite purposeful, and determined in his goals,” said John Earshen, associate professor and coordinator of the industrial technology program. “He moved through the program very well, and was poised and ready to begin his career. This is tragic news, and we extend our sympathies to his family.”

Steve Lango, master sergeant, retired, is president of the Student Veterans of America, Buffalo State chapter. He served in the United States Air Force for more than 20 years. He said, “It’s right to take time to recognize those who have served. Everyone should pause and remember the sacrifices made by the people who are serving or who have served—and their families— throughout our history.”

Lango will speak briefly at the ceremony. Jack Lang, ’64, chair of the Armed Forces Alumni Association, will introduce Daniel Beattie, recipient of the 2012 Military Service Scholarship.

Veterans Day originated in 1919 as Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I. In 1954, the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor American veterans of all wars.

The event is presented by Continuing Professional Studies, which includes Veterans and Military Services, and the Alumni Association. Following the ceremony, a reception will be held in E. H. Butler Library, Room 210.