Spet. 1, 2014
Audrey Jensen
[email protected]
The Student Veterans Organization is looking forward to honoring student veterans with the construction of a monument on campus that will encourage and honor veterans within the UCCS community.
The monument will be a six-by-fifteen foot mural displaying the transition of going from military life to gaining an education and then to graduation.
Ideas for the monument and funding began in January and progressed throughout the summer. The $8,200 monument will be fully funded by the Student Government Association.
“We are very appreciative for the student government funding this project,” said Phillip Morris, director of the Office of Veteran and Military Student Affairs.
The memorial ill be located on the wall on the west side outside of Café ‘65. Upon completion, students will have an opportunity to see the monument while entering or leaving the University Center.
“The design will be three different panels resembling life in the military, life as a student and graduated from college,” said Brett Cheatham SVO vice-president.
Design and assistance with the project will be provided by local artist Steve Wood and non-profi t organization Concrete Couch. The monument is going to be a community project to bring people together, which Wood has done with other artistic projects throughout Colorado and Manitou Springs.
“One of the goals of the monument is to help veterans feel more a part of the UCCS community,” said Cheatham.
Detailed planning of the monument began Aug. 29 and the unveiling and dedication of the memorial will be held during Veterans Week, starting Nov. 9.
With a need for volunteers, anyone is welcome to participate in the community project of building the memorial; it is not limited to just military or veteran students. Morris explained that the project is designed to be a collaborative, community building and engaging project completed by students.
Construction will start Sept. 5 from 1-3 p.m. and will continue every Friday at the same time until Oct. 3. Those who are interested in contributing to the community project should contact Cheatham as soon as possible for more details. Lunch will also be provided during construction sessions.
The increase of appreciation for UCCS student veterans is continuing with the construction of the monument.
“We want to recognize the sacrifice of service members,” said Cheatham.