WKU hosts wreath-laying ceremony to honor veterans

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A Veterans Day observance was held at Western Kentucky University.

On Tuesday morning, community members gathered at Guthrie Bell Tower for the annual wreath-laying ceremony to honor those who have served and currently serve in the armed forces.

The event included a moment of silence and an address by WKU President Dr. Timothy Caboni, who thanked veterans on behalf of the campus community.

“On behalf of all of us here today and on behalf of our entire institution. Thank you. For not only accepting and embracing your personal calling to defend and protect our nation,” said Caboni.

President Caboni also thanked the families of Veterans for their support and personal sacrifice

“To the husbands and wives, sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, families and friends of our service men and women. Thank you for the support you’ve given and the personal and often quiet sacrifices you’ve made. We appreciate your remarkable strength and resilience,” said Caboni.

Caboni closed his address by recognizing current WKU ROTC Cadets, saying the university is proud to provide education and training to the future of the United States Armed Forces.

Guthrie Bell Tower was built in 2002 and honors the service of Sergeant First Class Robert Guthrie, who died in combat in the Korean War.

The base of the tower features etchings of students and faculty members who served in the armed forces.