SKYCTC Honors Veterans During Annual Veterans Day Ceremony Featuring Retired Air Force Lieutenant General

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) honored the service and sacrifice of America's military veterans during its annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, November 11, at the Robert and Mary Tincher Campus Community Center on the college's Main Campus in Bowling Green.

The ceremony brought together students, faculty, staff, veterans, and community members to recognize the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

This year's featured speaker was Lieutenant General (Retired) Steven L. Basham, a distinguished military leader who served more than 36 years in the United States Air Force. Throughout his career, Basham held numerous senior leadership positions across the Department of Defense, culminating in his assignment as Deputy Commander of United States European Command in Germany.

Basham's extensive military career and leadership experience highlighted the importance of honoring those who have served and recognizing the lasting contributions of America's veterans.

The ceremony began with the Presentation of the Colors by the Warren Central High School JROTC Cadet Corps, followed by the National Anthem performed by Gary Cassibry.

Charlie Cole, a retired Air Force chief master sergeant, said ceremonies like this help younger people understand the role service members have played in protecting the country’s freedoms.

“It’s important for these young folks to have an understanding and a grounding in that, because freedom is not free,” Cole said. “It’s the brave men and women who serve in uniform that give us those freedoms.”

The ceremony also included remarks from SKYCTC Chancellor, Michelle Trawick, and a performance of “America the Beautiful.”

Lieutenant General Basham then delivered the keynote address as the college community gathered to pay tribute to veterans and reflect on the significance of their service to the nation.

The ceremony also featured a special performance of "America the Beautiful" by Heather LaRue, Dr. John Thomerson, and Josh Timmons.

The annual Veterans Day observance reflected SKYCTC's appreciation for military service members, veterans, and their families while reinforcing the importance of remembering the sacrifices made to protect the nation's freedoms.

Through the ceremony, SKYCTC continued its tradition of bringing the college community together to express gratitude to those who have answered the call to serve.

The event concluded with a message of appreciation for the courage, commitment, and sacrifice of America's veterans and recognition of the lasting impact of their service on communities across the nation.

Video story from Reese Furlow - WNKY TV News