Veterans Day Celebration

Haskell Indian Nations University (HINU) President Ronald Graham and the university’s Student Activities department held a ceremony to honor veterans. “We will start this ceremony as a tradition on a larger scale at Haskell,” said Graham when he announced the event. Over 40 staff, veterans, and community members were in attendance today. ‘Masks and social distancing’ were listed as requirements for the event which took place just days after a HINU employee tested positive for COVID-19.

The flag raising ceremony was led in song by Ron Brave while Jay Crawford and the Haskell Color Guard raised the flag—Allen Redbird carried the Eagle Staff. Ernest Wilson Jr. led the group in prayer, followed by opening remarks from the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs. Manny King led in the recognition of veterans followed by Graham’s dismissal to the fire pit where participants could gather around the fire to offer prayers and receive blessings.

Following the event, participants retired to the student union to enjoy buffet style refreshments and engage in conversation. They were also handed a HINU pin and mask by Graham as well as given merchandise from the Kansas City’s football franchise.


Event pictures below:

President Graham (far right) greeting arriving veterans. Photo by Jared Nally
President Graham addressing crowd. Photo by Jared Nally
Attendees grouped around ceremonial fire. Photo by Jared Nally
Haskell Pin handed to each attendee by President Graham. Photo by Jared Nally
President Graham prepares to hand out masks. Photo by Jared Nally
Attendees enjoying buffet style refreshments. Photo by Jared Nally
Kansas City Football Franchise apparel provided as party favors. Photo by Jared Nally