Wreath hung in memory

On Memorial Day 2020, the University of Dayton Reserve Officer Training Corps and Military and Veteran Programs and Services hung a wreath to honor the nation's veterans who died in defense of freedom. Sam Surowitz, veteran program director, read the World War I poem "In Flanders Fields" by allied Canadian LTC John McCrae. Professor of military science Lt. Col. Jefferson Burges attended in his dress uniform and placed the red, white and blue floral wreath alongside the Honor Roll, which he saluted to signify respect and appreciation for those who laid down their lives. The Honor Roll, mounted on the courtyard wall just outside the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, lists the name of ROTC alumni who died in the line of duty. Assistant professor Army Capt. Adam Berg and military science instructor Sgt. 1st Class Brian Armistead stood at attention for the short socially distanced ceremony. The University of Dayton motto is "Pro Deo Et Patria" — For God and Country. 

Said Surowitz, "Today is a day to both grieve the loss and celebrate the lives of those who laid down their lives in service to our nation. We are indebted to them and the Gold Star Families that they leave behind."