KANSAS CITY, KAN. ----- Students, staff and faculty members who have or are currently serving in the U.S. military shared what being a veteran means to them during “Veterans Speak IV” Nov. 11 at Kansas City Kansas Community College.
Among the guest speakers were David Fuqua, United State Marine Corp., retired; Michelle “Leo” D’Entremont, United States Army; Renea Williams, U.S. Army; Emzley Donnell, U.S. Army; Kevin Beashore, United States Marine Corp. Reserves; Eric Shepherd, U.S. Navy and Dr. Ed Kremer, U.S. Army Reserves. The event served as a way for the KCKCC community to honor those who have served in the military.
“There is no greater love than the love a soldier has for his country,” said Ewa Unoke, associate professor of political science at KCKCC, who started the event four years ago. “There is no love that can compare to a citizen making the declaration ‘I pledge my blood to defend my country.’”
Each of the panelists took a few moments to share their experiences in the military. Introductions were followed by questions from Unoke, who served as moderator, as well as some questions from the audience. Among those who attended were several classes from KCKCC as well as faculty and staff members.
D’Entremont, a student at KCKCC studying for a paramedic certificate, said if community members want to thank a veteran, the best option is to simply do something.
“Do something to give back to your country. Be involved,” she said. “Pay attention to what is going on around you. Don’t say it in words. Say it in your actions.”
Cutline: Students, staff and faculty members were among the panelists at “Veterans Speak IV” Nov. 11. From left to right, front row: Renea Williams, Michelle “Leo” D’Entremont and David Fuqua. Back row: Kevin Beashore, Dr. Ed Kremer, Emzley Donnell and Eric Shepherd.
