Note: This message was originally sent on July 1, 2022
This July Fourth, as flags wave outside homes across the country, I will be thinking of Gonzaga’s Bulldog Battalion—the committed individuals who dedicated themselves to serving our country in the United States Army. Every one of them played a role in establishing the Gonzaga University Reserve Officer Training Corps as one of the top programs in the nation, and they continue to impress throughout their lives of leadership and service.
I am grateful for them every time I see them out on campus early mornings all year long (like very early and in the dead of winter!), physically challenging themselves. It is a treat to see them present colors at sporting and events around our community, and to know that the freedoms and liberties we all enjoy are protected by these outstanding Zags. I am thankful for the faculty and staff of Gonzaga’s Military Science program who expertly guide and challenge these cadets on their journeys. And, we are forever grateful to the dozens of benefactors who have established funds to support this program and our student leaders.
Over the coming months, our team plans to share more about Gonzaga’s connections to the United States Military—all branches—and the outstanding active and veteran servicemembers in this community. Zag Nation salutes you and raises a sparkler this July Fourth to celebrate these United States. Thank you for helping to see this nation through to birthday after birthday. It’s not lost on any of us that Gonzaga’s official colors are white and blue, but for the thousands upon thousands who support and identify with the special community we have built here…..we are known by our red, white and blue!
Exciting news:Gonzaga and Michigan State to play game on aircraft carrier (Veteran’s Day 2022)