Veterans Day ceremony at Palm Beach State highlights service, unity and commitment

More than 200 students, faculty, staff, and community members gathered in the Student Commons area on Palm Beach State College’s Lake Worth campus on Monday, Nov. 10, to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans during the College’s annual Veterans Day Celebration. Among those in attendance were 12 veterans representing multiple branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.

The event was moderated by U.S. Marine veteran and Associate Dean of Public Safety Dr. Germany Dixon, who opened by noting that the day also marked the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps. His remarks set a tone of pride and reflection for the hour-long program that celebrated military service and the enduring values it represents.

U.S. Army veteran and PBSC Provost and Dean of the Boca Raton campus Dr. Van Williams delivered the welcome address, emphasizing the deeper meaning behind the national holiday. “Veterans Day is more than just a day on the calendar,” Williams said. “It’s a reminder of the courage, sacrifice and dedication that has shaped the nation’s story.” He added that the values veterans embody—duty, honor, courage, and country—should continue to guide all citizens in their personal and professional lives.

The program featured special guest speaker Cory P. Price, U.S. Army veteran and chief executive officer of the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System. Price highlighted the partnership between the VA and Palm Beach State College, noting how PBSC plays a vital role in helping veterans' transition successfully into civilian life. “PBSC opens doors for veterans who are transitioning from being service members to returning to civilian life,” he said. “Together, we can prepare the next generation of professionals who will serve veterans with compassion, excellence and innovation.”

The keynote address was delivered by Lt. Col. Keith T. Weaver III, U.S. Army, Officer-in-Charge of the Talon Battalion at FAU Army ROTC. A 19-year Army infantry officer, Weaver reflected on his family’s deep legacy of military service and the personal significance of Veterans Day. “Veterans Day holds a special place in my heart and stands as a symbol of national unity and appreciation,” he said. Weaver also spoke about his role in shaping future Army leaders, emphasizing service, leadership, and character as the core of military and community life. “Supporting our veterans and commemorating their sacrifices through remembrances like this ensures that their legacies continue to shape the future of both their communities and the country they served,” he added.

In addition to the speakers, the ceremony included moving presentations by the American Legion Post 164, the Palm Beach State College Chorus, and the Lake Worth Community High School Air Force ROTC Color Guard. Each contribution reinforced the spirit of gratitude and remembrance that defined the morning’s program.

Palm Beach State College’s Veterans Day celebration once again demonstrated the institution’s commitment to honoring those who served and to supporting the veteran community through education, advocacy and respect.

To view photos from the ceremony, visit the Veterans Day Celebration Flickr album.