The Gatepost Editorial: Thank you, veteran Rams
By The Gatepost Editorial Board
Wednesday, Nov. 11, the nation recognized Veterans Day, a moment to pause, reflect, and thank the courageous men and women who answered the call of duty and served in America’s military.
Framingham State is fortunate to have a rich network of current students and alums who have served in the military. The Gatepost Editorial Board thanks every single person who served - we’re grateful to have you as a part of our community. We see your sacrifices, recognize your voices, and appreciate the unique perspectives you bring to Framingham State.
Over the years, The Gatepost Editorial Board has had the privilege of working directly with veterans who have served on our staff.
The incredibly talented John Maynard wrote a recurring column, “Words from the War,” while actively deployed during the 2008-09 academic year, providing a unique perspective of someone who was called to serve in Iraq and did so admirably.
Maynard knew he still had a home at The Gatepost, and he continued to contribute to his beloved college paper. The editors who remained at FSU cheered for him from afar, sending care packages to his entire platoon. In response, the men of the 442d Infantry Regiment sent The Gatepost a tactical jacket signed by the entire group (see photo.)
It still proudly hangs in our office and is a reminder that regardless of politics, we’re all Americans. Maynard and his connection to The Gatepost is a testament that pride, friendship, and mutual respect are driving forces in any relationship.
During the George W. Bush Administration, three Gateposters were called to serve - like Maynard, they did so courageously.
In recent years, our dear former colleagues, Kaitlin Carman and Adam Harrison, served in the military before attending FSU. When they found their way to us, The Gatepost welcomed them with open arms and truly became a home. Both served as diligent news editors and monumentally contributed to our weekly print product and the overall culture of The Gatepost. Their mature and worldly perspectives enriched our team greatly.
They’ve since moved on to other opportunities, but their absence is still felt when The Gatepost convenes. We were fortunate to have their insights and contributions.
The tradition of veterans working on The Gatepost continues today with our friend and colleague Heather Luster, who served before relocating to Massachusetts and attending FSU.
Luster has a clear passion to help others and has made incredible contributions to both our news and opinion sections. We thank her for her service to the United States and to The Gatepost.
The Gatepost has been called home by many veterans, each of whom is a shining example of excellence, yet we aren’t the only organization. Many other groups on campus have had the privilege to call veterans friends and colleagues. Veterans enrich the campus culture every single day.
Think about your classes - chances are you have had or do have a peer who once served in the military. Typically, you’ll find a veteran sitting front and center in your classroom, prepared, calm, and ready to learn.
While in class, they’re usually some of the most engaged. Yet, they’re never the loudest voices in the room, but rather a catalyst for other students to speak. They know when to speak, when to encourage, and how to listen.
This is a level of maturity that some traditionally aged undergraduates struggle with at first.
For those who served overseas, a worldly perspective contributes to rich discussions of culture, politics, and what it means to be a global citizen.
Veterans are also beacons of hope for other students. Many come to Framingham State at different points in their lives, providing students with role models of different ages to look up to who can help put people on the right path.
Our veteran students learn just as much from traditional undergraduates, creating a symbiotic relationship in and out of the classroom.
Veterans Day is a single moment in time for the United States to stop and reflect on the courageous service of the men and women who defend our rights and freedoms.
Our community has a moment every day to pause, thank a veteran, and make campus a more inclusive and inviting space.
The Gatepost Editorial Board extends our sincere thanks to every American soldier, airman, marine, sailor, and veteran who makes up our community.
