On the 11th day of the 11th month each year, the United States pays tribute to those who have served in the military with the observation of Veterans Day. Veterans Day is an opportunity to honor the U.S. military and those who have died while serving. A ceremony at the Memorial Union on Thursday afternoon, on the eve of Veterans Day, did just that.

A remembrance ceremony in the Great Hall honored four former ISU students who died during military service. The program began with the presentation of the colors and the national anthem.

“These men felt a call to duty,” said Lt. Col. Michael Novy. “They set aside personal desires for the good of humanity.”

The life story of each soldier was provided by various friends and family members and read aloud while photos of their lives were shown on an overhead screen.

Vice President of Student Affairs Thomas Hill spoke at the program, reminding the audience that they were there to represent four people from the ISU community.

“I am honored to call them my own,” Hill said. “They were a part of our community and they will continue to be a part of it.”

These soldiers will continue to be a part of the ISU community as the name of each soldier was engraved upon the wall in Gold Star Hall of the Memorial Union. Their names now stand beside those of former students who also lost their lives while serving the United States and are passed by students, faculty and staff of Iowa State every day.