On Our Mind: ESU's Patriot Award

Many announcements were made at last week’s general assembly. The Tuesday event included information about various changes to personnel and campus facilities, as well as new safety features on the campus.

Still, there was one announcement that all Emporia State students should be proud of—the awarding of the Department of Defense Patriot Award to Emporia State.

According to the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve web site at www.esgr.org, the award is presented to employers and organizations which support members of the National Guard and Army Reserve who are staff members or students.

Members of the two military branches nominate the employers or organizations and the ESGR presents the award on behalf of the Department of Defense.

A certificate was presented to President Michael Lane at the general assembly commemorating the university’s recognition as a supporter of National Guard and Army Reserve members.

We, as students, faculty and community members, should feel honored that our university has been presented with this award. It shows that our university is among the companies and organizations in this country that support our troops in their efforts.

While not every student or faculty member on campus agrees with our current military occupations, we should still show our support for those who are serving in those events, as they have a heavy load to bear in the assignments they have been handed by our country.

After all, without the men and women of our military branches, this country would have little to defend itself. Our safety and security are in the hands of these men and women.

It is a proud time at ESU, and the editorial board hopes that the entire campus will join us in congratulating the university in its commitment to support those serving our country.