Veterans Week 2023

1969 was one of the deadliest years for Americans in the Vietnam War. This year’s Vietnam Panel features three veterans who were in the air and on the ground of the Mekong Delta in 1969. All saw action and acts of humanity they have never forgotten and came home to long and successful civilian careers. What do they think today of the first war America thought it had lost?

Military service is, in itself, a distinct identity and one that veterans and active military members must weigh against their own multiple self- and society-selected ones. Like other identities, it comes with a unique set of positive and negative stereotypes by those who have never served. Like other identities, it is often left out of diversity, equity, and inclusion discussions despite it being a protected class (along with race, gender, religion, and ability) under federal law. Join us in a town hall discussion as we talk about the inclusion of military service in our DEI campus initiatives.

From Oct. 7, 2001 to Aug. 30, 2021, the U.S. was engaged in its longest conflict in Afghanistan and Iraq. Both wars changed our country forever. For our military members, there were immediate casualties, with over 7,000 deaths, but more shocking were the 30,000 suicides of post-9/11 veterans following their service. In this panel, we will hear from those who served in these conflicts. What did they experience in the military, why did they join, what has their transition to civilian life been like, and what are their hopes for the future?

What do students who have served in the military think about their experiences at U-M? What made them join the military? What did they do while they were in the military? How can we best support them in their academic journey, given their unique backgrounds? These are just some of the questions you will hear answered by a group of students who have served in the U.S. military and are now studying at the University of Michigan!

On July 30, 1945, the USS Indianapolis was torpedoed by a Japanese sub after dropping off parts for the first atomic bomb, “Little Boy.” Out of almost 1,200 men onboard, 900 survived the sinking, but spent nearly four days and nights battling sharks, hunger, thirst, and weather. Only 317 survived the ordeal.

Journalist Doug Stanton talks about his research from the book, conclusions he has drawn from the stories of the men who sailed Indianapolis that fateful night, and answers your questions about this story of war, survival, and courage.

Book Details

Since 1778, when Lieutenant Frederick Gotthold Enslin became the first service member dismissed from the military for homosexuality, persons who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender have faced discrimination in the military. Since the repeal of "don't ask, don't tell," LGBTQ+ service members have been allowed to serve openly in the U.S. military, and federal benefits have been extended to cover their dependents. Hear these veterans talk about their service, sacrifice, and discrimination they faced while serving their country in this panel discussion.

Throughout our country's history, women have served vital support roles in the U.S. military. Today, the Department of Defense reports that over 230,000 women make up its active duty force, and all jobs have opened to them in recent years. They have also at times had to overcome sexist stereotypes, sexual harassment, and sexual assault, all while serving their country. Come and hear their stories of perseverance, grit, and courage when they honorably served in the U.S. military.

Maize and Blue Room, Student Activities Building
RSVP To Attend

On Nov. 10, 1775, the United States Marine Corps was founded with the approval of the Continental Congress. The Marine Corps birthday pays tribute to the brave men and women who serve in this elite branch of the U.S armed forces. It also celebrates the Corps' proud history, achievements, and traditions through this annual observance.

Ballroom, Michigan Union
RSVP Required by Invite Sent to Your Email

All faculty, staff, and students who are currently serving in the U.S. military or who have served are invited to our annual lunch to honor your service and sacrifice to our nation and service to our university. For questions about the invite, please email Philip Larson, program director of Veteran and Military Services, at [email protected].

Flagpole, Central Campus Diag

Join us for the ceremonial lowering of the flag. This tradition is done each day at every military base and station across the U.S. and around the world. Come and join us as we respect those who continue to serve their country and those who have served by participating in this important tradition.

Robertson Auditorium, Ross School of Business

Every year, in honor of Veterans Day, the Ross School of Business Armed Forces Association hosts a series of veteran speakers sharing the experiences that made them the leaders who they are today. VETx is your chance to connect with the men and women of the Ross veteran community and to hear from our talented veterans on topics such as courage, post-military identities, and overcoming adversity.

Flagpole, Central Campus Diag

Join us for the ceremonial raising of the flag. This tradition is done each day at every military base and station across the U.S. and around the world. Come and join us as we respect those who continue to serve their country and those who have served by participating in this important tradition.