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VWU Ceremony Pays Tribute to Veterans
Featured speaker First Lieutenant Bobby Manzingo, Class of 2021, reflected on the true meaning of sacrifice and service
University News | November 11, 2024
Virginia Wesleyan’s Veterans Day Ceremony opened with the entrance of the Hampton Roads NROTC Color Guard and the singing of “The Star Spangled Banner,” by Enrollment Counselor Lars Neel ’21. The invocation was delivered by Director of Campus Ministries Marie Porter. Veteran and Assistant Professor of Economics Dr. Garrett Wood, served as master of ceremonies.
“As a veteran myself, I’m deeply humbled to stand before you and reflect on the immense sacrifices and contributions of those who have served our country,” said Wood. “Veterans Day, celebrated on November 11 in the United States, is a time for us to come together as a community and express our profound gratitude to the men and women who have donned the uniform, defended our freedoms, and embodied the highest ideals of service and patriotism.”
VWU President Scott D. Miller welcomed attendees. “We at Virginia Wesleyan are exceptionally proud of our Marlin veterans—a vital component of our community made up of current students, faculty, staff, and hundreds of alumni. They have gone above and beyond their citizens’ duty by answering the call to serve and protect our country.”
President Miller recognized the military veterans, as well as the family members of military veterans, who were present at the event. He then introduced the featured speaker, VWU alumnus First Lieutenant Bobby Manzingo.
First Lieutenant Mazingo, a 2021 Virginia Wesleyan graduate, majored in Communication and was a two-time captain of the men’s lacrosse team and an active member of the Student Government Association. While pursuing his degree, he was a member of the Marlin Company of Army ROTC, launching his military career. Following graduation, he was commissioned as an Army Reserve Aviation Officer. He then attended Army Flight School where he earned his wings as a CH-47 Chinook helicopter pilot based out of Fort Eustis, VA. First Lieutenant Manzingo balances his role as a construction project manager with his continued service in the Army Reserve. He is married to Hanna Hull, VWU Class of 2020 and 2021, a three-time national softball champion, two-time national player of the year, national pitcher of the year, and NCAA record holder for career wins. Bobby and Hanna have a young son.
During his address, First Lieutenant Manzingo reflected on the true meaning of sacrifice and service.
“Today, we honor the men and women who have worn the uniform of our armed forces. These are not just soldiers, airmen, seamen, or marines, but rather neighbors, friends, coaches and classmates who have answered the call to serve; some of whom have faced unimaginable challenges and made profound sacrifices, often putting their lives on the line for the freedoms we hold dear to us.”
He noted that these are also sacrifices that are made at home; sacrifices that aren’t always labeled as brave, or noble, or heroic. Sacrifices such as uprooting their families and moving to a new duty station thousands of miles away or participating in a thirty-day field training exercise with no communication with family.
“Service is another fundamental aspect of what it means to be a veteran. It’s the unwavering commitment to something larger than oneself. It is at the heart of what our veterans embody.”
First Lieutenant Manzingo shared that this service extends beyond their military occupation and continues into vital roles as community leaders, educators, and mentors.
“Their experiences enrich our society and bring a high level of professionalism and service to our communities. To those who have served, we express our deepest gratitude. Your bravery inspires us to strive for a better future.”
After First Lieutenant Manzingo’s remarks, Luke Dobrin—son of faculty member Dr. Benjamin D. Dobrin, Dean of the D. Henry Watts School of Professional Studies—played “Taps” on bagpipes to honor those we have lost. Batten Professor of Religious Studies and Leadership Dr. Craig Wansink, offered a prayer of Thanksgiving, and Lars Neel sang “Amazing Grace.” A reception in the Greer Environmental Sciences Center immediately followed the ceremony.
VWU’s Veterans Day ceremony was coordinated by Heather Campbell, vice president for enrollment, Jennifer Sands, assistant director of financial aid and Virginia certifying official. and Kelsie Flowers, first-year enrollment counselor.
Learn more about the Army ROTC program and Veterans Support Services at Virginia Wesleyan University.