Students, faculty, citizens and members of the U.S. military gathered beneath the Drill Field flagpole Wednesday night in support of troops who are serving or have already served in Iraq.
The program, sponsored by the College Democrats, was part of Democratic Pride Week. The campus group celebrated by sponsoring programs every day this week, said College Democrats President Brandon Bogard.
The bi-partisan event was to show support for the troops, Bogard said.
“We want everyone to be a part of this,” Bogard said.
The event began at 6:30 p.m. College Democrats passed out candles to a crowd of about 50 people before the program, and the crowd struggled against winds that frequently extinguished their flames. Most people were able to keep their candles lit throughout the program.
“[Each candle] signifies the light we have in our hearts and the freedom we have in our souls,” Matt Holmes, activities coordinator for the College Democrats, said.
Vice President for Student Affairs Bill Kibler was the master of ceremonies for the program. He opened with several remarks about the troops and their admirable commitment.
“All of us should call them heroes,” Kibler said.
Speakers from three branches of the military offered a brief history of their branch and how it has served America.
Retired Marine Corp. Major Fred Mock, who is also the Housing and Residence Life assistant director for facilities, said members of the service are comparable to the generation that fought in the world wars. They are making sacrifices, and they appreciate all the support they can get.
“Events like this mean a whole lot to the men and women serving overseas,” Mock said.
The crowd walked over to the World War I memorial by Lee Hall and Vietnam Memorial by Magruder after the speeches. At each, the crowd prayed and observed a moment of silence.
Starkville Mayor Mack Rutledge provided closing statements after the crowd returned to the Drill Field. He complimented the resilience of the troops, who are making sacrifices by leaving their families, serving for extended periods of time and risking their lives in defense of their country.
“I have not heard one of these service members complaining,” Rutledge said.
There were other service members that were scheduled to speak, but they were called up for duty and had to cancel. Otherwise, the planning and execution of the program went well, despite the cold weather, Holmes said.
“The students that were out here tonight represent the troops, because they braved the weather,” Holmes said, “and although they may not be military active, they will all grow to lead our great country.”
Periodically throughout the program, Kibler read the names of MSU students who have served or are serving in Iraq.
The Black Voices also sang “God Bless America” and the National Anthem.