Four University of Alabama student veterans participated in a historic moment earlier this month by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery.
This marked the first time any student from the university or the Southeastern Conference took part in this solemn tradition honoring fallen U.S. military members, the university reported.
Marine Corps veteran Drew Bair and Army veteran Blake Schickel had the honor of placing the wreath, while fellow UA Student Veterans Association leaders Cody Copper and Jordan Golden joined in support. The event concluded a week of impactful opportunities in Washington, D.C., as part of the Student Veterans of America’s Washington Week.
‘Humbling and emotional experience’
“This was a humbling and emotional experience,” Bair said. Golden described it as “surreal,” emphasizing its significance in advocating for student veterans.
Beyond the wreath-laying, the group met with national leaders, including Under Secretary of the Navy Victor Minella, to discuss policies affecting student veterans. Copper, who initiated the ceremony, noted the importance of service members engaging in politics.
Reflecting on the experience, Copper expressed interest in becoming a military liaison, while Bair described their advocacy as a “second service” after military duty.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story is a summary of an article written by Jennifer Brady and originally published by the University of Alabama.
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