Students will have a chance to give back to U.S. troops overseas at this week’s Thurs “D” activity.
The Veterans Reconnect Club is sponsoring the event and will hold it on Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. at the Pavilion next to the Udvar-Hazy building. The event is open to students as well as the community.
Everyone is encouraged to come show support for the troops by helping assemble care packages, participate in the Patriot Run and other various activities.
Scotty McNeal, a freshman general education major from St. George and the club’s vice president, said they are very excited about the event.
“We’ve got some great activities planned,” he said.
There will be a flag ceremony at 5 p.m., at which the Dixie State College ROTC program will be presenting the colors. Following the flag ceremony there will be a Patriot Run/Walk around campus.
“We invite everyone to dress up in their most patriotic outfit,” McNeal said. “Whether that is in red, white and blue or dressed as a service member or Uncle Sam, we want everyone to make the campus loop with us.”
Following the Patriot Run/Walk, there will be a hot dog eating contest, and everyone will have a chance to help assemble care packages for a platoon the club has adopted. Students and community members are encouraged to donate items to include in the packages for the soldiers. Items must be non-perishable as it takes two to three weeks for the packages to arrive overseas.
Club President Crystal Melgar, a junior psychology major from Tooele, said they want to get out as many care packages as possible.
“Students can donate anything they would like to include in the care packages,” Melgar said. “Baked goods, toothpaste, mouthwash, soap, notebooks, letters, etc. Every little bit helps.”
There will also be a fundraising booth where patrons can make donations to help the club.
The Veterans Reconnect Club is designed to be a support system and resource for veterans on campus.
“We want vets to know that they can come to us not only for support, but for help getting back into school,” Melgar said. “We are a resource for them, and we have contacts all around campus to help them become integrated back into normal life.”
The Veterans Reconnect Club meets every Wednesday at 3 p.m. in the Iverson Lounge, located on the second floor of the Gardner Student Center.
Those interested in joining, or who want more information on the event, can find the club on Facebook, email [email protected], or contact Melgar at 801-637-1187.
Written by Madison Pennie
