The University of Notre Dame Alumni Association and the Office of Military & Veterans Affairs hosted its annual Military & Veteran Alumni Recognition Ceremony, a poignant tribute held in front of the iconic Main Building. The ceremony gathered members of the Notre Dame family to honor and celebrate alumni and their families who have served, or continue to serve, in the United States Armed Forces.
The morning began with patriotic music, setting a reverent tone as the official party, comprising distinguished military leaders, university officials, and ROTC commanders, took their seats. Michael Labbe, Assistant Director of Military and Veterans Affairs, welcomed attendees, emphasizing the enduring connection between Notre Dame and military service.
"This year, we proudly honor and celebrate all Notre Dame alumni and their families who have served or continue to serve," Labbe stated. "This includes those who commissioned through our Army, Naval, or Air Force ROTC programs, as well as those who served before, during, or after their time at Notre Dame."
The ceremony proceeded with an invocation by Reverend Peter Rocca, C.S.C., Chaplain for the Notre Dame ROTC Program, followed by the solemn playing of the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance, inviting all service members, veterans, and first responders to render a salute.
A moment of quiet reflection was dedicated to prisoners of war and those missing in action, with the POW-MIA flag proudly displayed as a poignant reminder that "You Are Not Forgotten."
The highlight of the ceremony was an inspiring address by Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Regan Jones, United States Marine Corps. As the Senior Director for Global Operations at Notre Dame Global and a Term Assistant Teaching Professor, Jones shared insights from his distinguished military career, linking his extensive experience in international operations to the University's global mission. Notably, Jones also served as the founding director of Notre Dame’s Office of Military & Veterans Affairs, further deepening his connection to the mission.
In his remarks, Jones powerfully articulated Notre Dame's deep historical ties to military service. "At Notre Dame, we remember because it matters," he stated, highlighting the University's long tradition of preparing students to serve both God and country since the Continental Cadets were formed in 1859. He emphasized that this "same Notre Dame spirit, sense of duty, and mission-orientation has been present in supporting our nation in each war and conflict throughout its history." Jones underscored the importance of remembrance, telling attendees, "your service—and your sacrifice—have shaped Notre Dame."
Following Jones' remarks, Notre Dame extended a heartfelt invitation to all alumni veterans and currently serving military members to come forward. They were recognized for their dedication with a letter of appreciation from University President Father Robert Dowd and a commemorative challenge coin from the Office of Military and Veterans Affairs.
The official party, including Fr. Rocca, Regan Jones, Ken Heckel (Director, Military and Veterans Affairs), Dolly Duffy (Executive Director of the Notre Dame Alumni Association), Captain (Retired) Lou Pollock, Captain (Retired) Grant Sassen, Commander Matthew Wood (Executive Officer of Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps), Colonel Charles Freel (Commander of Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps), and Captain Emilie White (Army Reserve Officer Training Corps) personally greeted each honoree.
The patriotic spirit continued as the songs of each service branch were played, with veterans standing proudly to honor their respective branches: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. The ceremony also honored Gold Star families present, inviting them to rise in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The ceremony concluded with the solumn playing of Taps, followed by a benediction from Father Rocca and the singing of Notre Dame's Alma Mater, "Notre Dame, Our Mother." Attendees were then invited to take individual photographs in front of the World War I Memorial Door of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
"Thank you for your service and sacrifice to our nation," Labbe concluded, reinforcing the profound gratitude of the University. "The Notre Dame Family is eternally grateful. Welcome home to Notre Dame."
This annual ceremony continues to be a cornerstone of the Reunion weekend, celebrating the valor, patriotism, and enduring contributions of Notre Dame's military and veteran alumni to the nation. You may view the entire recorded ceremony here.