For David Fielding M’25, patriotism and gratitude aren’t mere political abstractions.
“It is a noblest expression of selfless love,” he said during remarks at Merrimack College’s Veterans Day Celebration, “sanctified by the blood and the sacrifice of veterans, their families and their loved ones. When I invoke words like honor, patriotism and gratitude, I do so with those sacrifices in mind.”
The Warriors for Warriors veteran student group hosted the College’s annual celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 5, outside the Sakowich Campus Center. Merrimack College was founded in 1947 in response to the needs and aspirations of local soldiers returning home from World War II.
“From basic training to every battlefield, I was surrounded by men and women of different faiths, different ethnicities, different backgrounds and different political views,” Fielding continued. “They were and are my teachers, my friends and my brothers and sisters, and they taught me the meaning of patriotism.”
The event’s first guest speaker, Scott Hyder, founded the Hidden Battles Foundation to assist New England veterans struggling with mental health issues.
“Today, we laugh, celebrate and think about what we’ve been through and where we’re going,” he said. “My message to you as future leaders is to honor that sacrifice (veterans made), honor our limps, our aches, our pains, our mental illnesses and don’t take it for granted. Honor it, carry it on and make it worth it.”
Joseph Leblanc, director of veterans’ affairs in North Andover and Boxford, followed Hyder by remarking how well veterans perform in higher education.
“They exemplify discipline, leadership and teamwork,” Leblanc said. “Veterans thrive in being part of something bigger than themselves. I would encourage all of you to find your mentors, mentor others and find your purpose.”
