Celebrating Veteran's Day

Veteran's Day is a holiday that occurs only once a year, but we honor and remember our courageous veterans every day. This holiday is much more meaningful than just a day away from school. It is a day to reflect about our great nation that we take for granted each and every day and to honor the brave men and women who put their lives at risk to ensure our freedom. Those who give up their own freedom to fight to preserve ours are incredibly selfless, and deserve the respect of each and every American. The amount of dedication and love that our soldiers possess for the United States of America is an astounding reminder of how lucky we all are to be able to call this country home.

Today, I encourage everyone to take some time to think about the soldiers in the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard and reflect about what they have done throughout the years of America's existence to make this country the best on earth. Think about those who have given up the right to be with their own families to make sure the citizens at home can raise and be with theirs. Also think about the different attacks that have been performed against the USA with the intent of destroying our freedom and sense of safety and be reminded of how our servicemen heroically responded. Every time there has been a crisis, Americans have been reminded of the power of our military and their steadfastness and determination. Whether you watch a video about our veterans or just spend some time thinking about all they do for us, ensure that today you are reminded of how lucky we truly are to have fellow Americans that fight for our country. Thank you veterans for all that you do for us! Your bravery, fearlessness and dedication to others are traits that we all wish to emulate and are extremely grateful for.

Students, today is the perfect opportunity to learn a little more about how our university is dedicated to honoring our veterans with our Collegiate Veterans Society. Log onto the Collegiate Veterans Society website to learn more about how you can help honor our veterans, or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/UF.CVS.

Remembering 9/11

Today, I would like to use the post as an opportunity to reflect on an event that changed our nation forever. It is hard to believe that it has been 12 years since 9/11, but no matter how much time passes it is steadfastly important to continuously remember the brave men and women who lost their lives that day.

Remembering events such as this one really puts everything in perspective. Thousands of lives were changed forever that day. People packed suitcases that they never got to open. People left their homes for work and never returned home. Today reminds us of just how fragile life is, and that each day isn't promised.

Take some time to think about the ones who lost their lives in this tragedy, from the people who were working in the building to the firefighters who attempted to rescue innocent victims. The amazing thing about that day is the way our nation rallied around a hellish tragedy and came together as one. The way our nation reacted to the events reminds us of just how great it is to be an American.

Happy Fourth of July!

Wishing all Gators and friends a happy Fourth of July today! Today we celebrate the birth of our great country and the values our founding fathers created to truly make this country the land of the free and home of the brave. Go Gators and Go America!