SOU Memorial Day event commemorates fallen service members

Southern Oregon University will observe Memorial Day during a commemoration event on Wednesday, May 25, honoring the men and women of our military branches who have died in service to the nation.

The SOU Reflection and Remembrance Ceremony will be from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Rogue River Room, located on the main floor of the Stevenson Union. SOU President Rick Bailey, Jr., an Air Force veteran, will be the keynote speaker.

“We have two days that honor military service – Memorial Day and Veterans Day – that are commonly confused,” said Jesse S. Watson, Ph.D., SOU’s equity coordinator for veterans & military families. “Memorial Day is the opportunity to honor the lives and sacrifices of fallen service members, while Veterans Day is a day to recognize our living military veterans.

“Military service is an oath that each individual upholds but I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the collective sacrifice of each member’s support network,” Watson said. “Countless loved ones mourn their loss, celebrate their dedication and honor their call to service.”

The Memorial Day Reflection and Remembrance Ceremony is an opportunity for the campus community and Rogue Valley neighbors to come together to remember those who have laid down their lives in service and to lift up those loved ones who carry their loss each day. All are welcome to attend the ceremony.

For more information, please visit: sou.edu/veterans.