Carbondale honors veterans through annual event and proclamation

 CARBONDALE, Ill. (KBSI) – A longstanding tradition at Southern Illinois University Carbondale brought the community together Wednesday to honor the men and women who have served in the U.S. armed forces. 

SIU held its 45th annual Veterans Day flagpole vigil Nov. 11, continuing a tradition that began in 1981.

The vigil took place at the Old Main Flagpole, just south of Woody Hall, where Air Force and Army ROTC cadets stood a silent watch throughout the morning. Cadets rotated shifts every 15 minutes, maintaining the vigil from 6 a.m. until noon.

An 11 a.m. ceremony featured a proclamation from Carbondale Mayor Carolin Harvey and remarks from retired U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Walt Lindsley, a 1989 SIU alumnus.

Lindsley served 37 years in the Air Force, with assignments and deployments around the world. His military career included service during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, as well as surviving the Sept. 11 terrorist attack while inside the Pentagon.

The ceremony also included a wreath-laying in honor of veterans and the playing of “Taps” by the SIU Trumpet Studio.

Organized by SIU’s Air Force and Army ROTC programs in partnership with SIU Veterans Services, the annual vigil recognizes veterans from the university and throughout Southern Illinois.

For those gathered, the observance serves as a reminder that honoring veterans goes beyond one day on the calendar. It is an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices, commitment and service of those who have defended the country.

The annual tradition continues to bring generations together to remember those who served and ensure their contributions are not forgotten.