ESU to Host Veterans Day Celebration and Rededication of Iconic World War I Statue

LtCol. Ron Watson

Posted by: Elizabeth Richardson on November 1, 2018, No Comments

East Stroudsburg University will host its 10th annual Veterans Day Celebration Thursday, November 8 at 2 p.m. to recognize local veterans, servicemen and servicewomen in all branches of the armed services. The celebration will be in Stroud Hall, Room 117.

The keynote speaker for this event is Lieutenant Colonel Ron Watson, Jr., Retired. Lieutenant Colonel Ron Watson, a 1976 ESU graduate, served in the United States Marine Corps in various command and staff assignments over a 22-year active duty career.

This year’s observance of Veterans Day will include the rededication of the statue named “Julia” located on the front circle of campus. The Julia Statue, purchased by ESU alumni commemorates ESU students and faculty who served and lost their lives during World War I.  Ninety-nine years ago, on November 2, 1919, a formal dedication service was held and the monument unveiled.  “Julia” has become a symbol of the University’s link with its normal school heritage.

During this year’s observance, in conjunction with the 125th anniversary of ESU and the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I, ESU will take time to acknowledge “Julia’s” presence on campus and reflect on her place as a reminder of those who fought for our country and those who continue to do so today.

The Veterans Day Celebration program will also include the armed forces medley, a wreath laying by ESU President Marcia G. Welsh, Ph.D. and Lieutenant Colonel Watson, a three volley salute by the Monroe County Joint Veterans Honor Guard, the playing of taps, and bagpipes by Celtic United Pipes and Drums.

Lieutenant Colonel Watson’s distinguished service included overseas duty in Japan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Yugoslavia, Somalia, Brussels and the Bosnia-Herzegovina area. He has received numerous medals and commendations for his service.

Lieutenant Colonel Watson was raised in the Bronx and educated at DeWitt Clinton High School, Westchester Community College and East Stroudsburg University, where he played on the 1975 undefeated football team which is enshrined in the ESU Athletic Hall of Fame.

The celebration is open to the general public and campus community at no cost. A reception will be held following the program in the foyer of Zimbar-Liljenstein Hall.

For more information, contact June Pepe in the Student Enrollment Center at (570) 422-2812 or at veterans@esu.edu