VIDEO TRANSCRIPT: Syracuse University honors its veterans at the National Veterans Resource Center
Antonio Dunston: The day began before sunrise with a 5k run through the Syracuse university campus. But the heart of the tribute came just a few hours later, as many Central New Yorkers gathered inside the National Veterans Resource Center for a ceremony rooted in honor, reflection, and gratitude.
Dwayne Murray: It’s an opportunity to celebrate service. Service of others. Service to others as well. It’s evolved over time having been a service member and having the opportunity to help those and service those. But now again, as a veteran, it just…it just means a whole lot more.
Dunston: Inside the center, the ceremony unfolded with precision and pride. Each branch of the U.S. Military was acknowledged with their anthems filling the hall as all the Coast Guard, Air Force, Navy and Army veterans in attendance stood to be honored.
Dunston: Retired U.S. Air Force General Lester L. Lyles delivered the keynote address, calling for unity and a deep appreciation for those who put on the uniform. For him, the most meaningful moments aren’t found in grand gestures, but in the quiet power of simple yet sincere recognition.
Lester L Lyles: Just a simple statement. Thanks for your service. It always comes from nowhere. I mean I’m not expecting it, but that’s the reward in and of itself. It’s hard to believe. And that’s nothing tangible. It’s not a plaque or anything like that. It’s just the fact that somebody genuinely say thank you.
Dunston: Whether through sweat or silence, today’s event reminded many that gratitude takes various forms. And in Syracuse, honoring veterans isn’t just a ceremony. It’s a shared commitment to remember, respect and recognize those who served. Antonio Dunston, NCC News.
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — Syracuse University marked Veterans Day with a moving tribute that blended physical endurance, musical homage, and heartfelt reflection.
The day began before dawn with a 5K run through campus with runners setting the tone for the rest of the day as they braved the falling snow and chilly air. It wasn’t about how far they ran, but instead it was about showing up, pushing through the cold and doing something that mattered.
Later in the morning, warmth replaced the frost as the community gathered inside the National Veterans Resource Center to get to the emotional core of the celebration and truly honor those who’ve served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The ceremony featured stirring renditions of each military branch’s anthem, prompting veterans from the Coast Guard, Air Force, Navy, and Army to rise and be recognized. The atmosphere was one of pride and solemn gratitude.
Retired U.S. Air Force General Lester L. Lyles delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the power of simple gestures.
“Just a simple statement. Thanks for your service. It always comes from nowhere,” he said. “It’s not a plaque or anything like that. It’s just the fact that somebody genuinely says thank you.”
Deputy Director at the Office of Veteran and Military affairs, and veteran, Dwayne Murray echoed that sentiment, reflecting on how his understanding of service has deepened over time.
“It’s an opportunity to celebrate service. Service of others. Service to others as well,” he said. “Now, as a veteran, it carries even more weight.”
From snowy footsteps and the steady beat of running shoes outside to the warm applause and admiring glances inside, the day moved seamlessly from action to appreciation. An outing as such reminded attendees that honoring veterans isn’t confined to formal speeches or big stages, and is simply found in everyday acts of respect and remembrance. Syracuse’s tribute was a testament to the community’s enduring commitment to those who’ve served.