MANSFIELD, PA—Mansfield University President Fran Hendricks was the keynote speaker at the Veterans Day assembly at Troy High School on Friday, November 11.
Hendricks served 33 years in the US Air Force after
graduating from Mansfield, retiring as a Brigadier General, before becoming president in 2013.
“The service members we honor today came from all walks of life, but they shared several fundamental qualities,” Hendricks said. “They possessed courage, pride, determination, selflessness, dedication to duty and integrity, all the qualities needed to serve a cause larger than one’s self. They were ordinary people who responded in extraordinary ways in extreme times. They rose to the nation’s call because they wanted to protect a nation which has given them, us, so much.”
Hendricks cited several examples throughout our nation’s history of those willing to serve and the importance of honoring their service and sacrifice.
“It is my contention, the nation’s next great generation is among us now,” he added. “They presently serve as volunteers in the defense of our nation, putting service before self. They have proven their mettle under fire. I have seen them firsthand and they are an impressive group. As one generation of Americans passes the baton of responsibility to the next, they do so with the complete confidence that the next generation of Americans is ready for the challenge. Please believe me when I say, 
every one of you in this room is going to do amazing things in your life. Your ability to pursue your dreams and aspirations will be made possible through the service and sacrifice of those in uniform.”
The program, themed “Respect, Honor, Gratitude,” also featured musical and dance performances, the reading of essays, a video presentation of student and staff family members who are veterans, presentation of the colors by Troy American Legion Post 49 and a special recognition of Troy students who have made a commitment to military service after graduation.