Human Resources Blog

Veterans Day Events and Veterans Resources

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Veterans Day, originally called Armistice Day, was first observed on November 11, 1919, to mark the end of World War I. In 1938, it became a federal holiday, and in 1954, the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor all American veterans, both living and deceased.

Each year, Veterans Day provides an opportunity to recognize the courage, commitment and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in our nation’s armed forces. It is also an opportunity to recognize the veterans among our Missouri State University faculty, staff, students and community.

Missouri State University invites the campus community and area residents to join in honoring veterans at this year’s Veterans Day celebration on Wednesday, November 11.

Veterans Day Events on Campus

Wednesday, November 11, 2026

🥞 Veterans Day Breakfast

Join Missouri State University for its annual Veterans Day Breakfast, hosted by the Missouri State University Foundation. The complimentary breakfast and program recognize the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.

Location: Plaster Student Union (PSU) Ballroom

Agenda:

  • 8:00 a.m. – Doors open
  • 8:30 a.m. – Missouri State Pride Band music and buffet opens
  • 8:50 a.m. – Service music
  • 9:00 a.m. – Program begins

The program will feature opening remarks, presentation of Colors by the MSU Bear Battalion, the Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem, invocation, and university welcome from President Williams. Additional highlights include an introduction to Cups of Valor Coffee, remarks from Army veteran Andrew Shireman, and guest speaker Col. Toni M. Rieke.

Cups of Valor: More Than Coffee

This year, Missouri State will also recognize a meaningful partnership between Got Your Six Coffee Company, founded by Eric Hadley, and BEARS, INK, Missouri State’s student-managed entrepreneurship initiative.

Cups of Valor brings together a commitment to honoring veterans, military members, first responders, healthcare professionals and their families while providing students with real-world business and entrepreneurial experience.

Through this collaboration, every purchase supports a purpose: recognizing those who have served while investing in the next generation of leaders.

🎺 Taps Project

Following the breakfast program, the campus community is invited to participate in one of Missouri State’s meaningful Veterans Day traditions.

  • 10:55 a.m. – National Anthem outside the south side of McDonald Arena
  • 11:11 a.m. – Taps performed by Missouri State trumpeters in coordination with the Bear Battalion

The cascading sound of Taps across campus provides a moving tribute to those who have served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

☕ Additional Details

Hot chocolate will be available following the celebration.

For event details and registration information, visit the Veterans Day Breakfast event listing.

🇺🇸 Community Veterans Day Celebrations

Missouri State encourages employees, students and community members to participate in local celebrations honoring veterans throughout the Ozarks. Several communities are hosting parades and special programs to recognize those who have served.

Springfield, Missouri

Springfield Veterans Day Parade

Ebenezer Veterans Day Parade

  • Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
  • Time: 1:30 p.m.
  • Location: Ebenezer Community Center, 1624 W. Farm Road 56, Springfield

Hosted by the Ebenezer Historical Society, this community parade welcomes veterans, families and area residents. Participants are invited to join the parade, with awards and refreshments following the procession.

West Plains, Missouri

A Musical Salute to Our Veterans

  • Date: Monday, November 9, 2026
  • Time: 7:00 p.m.
  • Location: West Plains Civic Center Theater

The Missouri State-West Plains University Community Band will present a patriotic musical tribute recognizing veterans and their respective branches of service. Veterans and their families are encouraged to attend.

Admission is free and the concert is open to the public.

For additional information, contact Rocky Long at 417-255-7291 or email RockyLong@MissouriState.edu. Visit the City of West Plains event listing for details.

West Plains Veterans Day Parade

  • Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2026
  • Time: 11:00 a.m.
  • Location: Begins at People’s Park, near Porter Wagoner Boulevard and Broadway

Join the West Plains community in honoring local veterans during its annual Veterans Day Parade. The parade follows a downtown route, traveling toward Court Square and the West Plains Civic Center.

🎓 Veteran Resources at Missouri State

Missouri State University is proud to support veterans, military personnel and their families through educational opportunities and campus resources.

The Oldham Family Veteran Student Center provides support and resources for veterans and military-connected students, including:

  • Education Benefits: Information and assistance with GI Bill® programs and other VA education benefits.
  • Veteran Student Center: Access to a welcoming space, lounge and computer lab.
  • Military Transfer Credit: Information about applying military experience toward academic credit.
  • Student Support: Assistance with the transition to college life, mentorship and other resources.

Missouri State also has approximately 150 veterans serving in faculty and staff positions throughout the University.

Learn more about available resources at the Oldham Family Veteran Student Center.

💙 Veteran Crisis Support

Veterans and their families may experience unique challenges during and after military service. Confidential support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the Veterans Crisis Line.

The Warrior’s Journey (TWJ)

The Warrior’s Journey is a faith-based organization dedicated to supporting military personnel, veterans and their families. Through veteran-to-veteran support, spiritual care and encouragement, TWJ helps individuals navigate the challenges of military service, life after service and the transition to civilian life.

The organization recognizes the unique experiences of military service and provides opportunities for individuals and families to find support, connection and hope.

Learn more about available resources and support through The Warrior’s Journey.

Veterans Crisis Line

The Veterans Crisis Line, provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, offers free, confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Trained responders, many with experience supporting veterans and military communities, are available to listen, provide guidance and connect individuals with additional resources.

You do not have to be enrolled in VA health care or receiving VA benefits to use this service. Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and their family members and friends can all reach out.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Missouri State employees and their household members also have access to confidential support through the University’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP), provided by Mercy.

The EAP offers assistance with a variety of personal and professional challenges, including stress, emotional well-being, family concerns, financial stress and other life circumstances.

  • Benefit: Up to six counseling sessions per household member.
  • Phone: 314-729-4600, option 2
  • Toll-Free: 800-413-8008, option 2

Employees and their household members can access these services confidentially at no cost through the University’s EAP.

Seeking support is a sign of strength. Whether you are a veteran, a family member or a colleague supporting someone who has served, resources are available.

A Day to Remember and Give Thanks

This Veterans Day, take a moment to recognize the veterans in our lives and across our campus community. Their service, sacrifice and commitment deserve our gratitude not just on November 11, but throughout the year.

Thank you to all who have served. Missouri State is proud to honor you.

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