Biola University was featured on the Whittier Daily News front page for honoring Veterans Day, November 11, 2009, with a special chapel. Biola’s ROTC students led the Pledge of Allegiance and Michael Wilkins, a Vietnam veteran and current Dean of Faculty at Talbot School of Theology, gave an introduction address about his experience as a soldier fighting in the Vietnam War.

Wilkins emphasized the difficulties that are faced when service men and women go to war. In the article, Wilkins is quoted saying he wanted students to realize how they should be grateful for those who have and are currently serving in the military.

Following the special chapel, Biola also launched Pitney Bowes and Red Cross’ Holiday Mail for Heroes, an on-campus campaign that supports current and past service men and women. The goal of the project is to send signed Christmas cards ‘to send a touch of home’ to those away from home during the holiday season.

Students, faculty and staff from the Biola community had the chance to share their appreciation for all of the sacrifices service members make. Many also wrote words of encouragement and prayers.

Students Justin Milinich and Jessica Geels were quoted in the article for expressing their gratitude to the soldiers.

Geels stated how she wanted soldiers to “feel God’s love and know that we greatly appreciate their sacrifices.”

The Red Cross is in their third year of holding the special project and hopes to get a great response from people across America. According to the organization, over 1.4 million men and women serve in the United States armed services. Over 24 million veterans have served the country in the past.

Students can write a card of thanks and encouragement at a table in front of the cafeteria through Dec. 2. Cards are provided.

 Written by Jennifer Thach, Media Relations Intern. Jenna Bartlo, Media Relations Coordinator, can be reached at (562) 777-4061 or through email at jenna.l.bartlo@biola.edu