CARBONDALE, ILLINOIS (WSIL) -- This Veterans Day marks 40 years that the Southern Illinois University Carbondale ROTC program has put on a Veterans Day vigil.Ìý
It honors vets who attend the university and those all across the country, who sacrificed for the greater good.Ìý
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It was a dark and rainy start to the event, which started at 6:30 in the morning, with cadets dressed in their formal uniforms. They stood at attention in front of the old flagpole, changing guard every 15 minutes.Ìý
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One of those cadets is a local from Carterville named Ben Konvalinka. He signed up to be a part of the ROTC Air Force to be a part of something bigger than himself.
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"To get a bigger reach around, to help people." He explains. "Develop nations and other people. Or people here in the United States. Everyone who needs help."
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He's not the only one who has a love for his country and is proud to serve. Addison Reynolds, is a member of ROTC Army, and is a pre-med senior.Ìý
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She believes female veterans have paved the way for her to have many opportunities in her future.Ìý
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"Veterans Day is important to me to preserve the legacy of those that served before me," she says. "Especially females and for myself being a role model for others who are interested in service."
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Because of the wet weather, the wreath-laying ceremony is moved into Davies Hall. That's where guest speakers like Carbondale Mayor Mike Henry will give remarks.Ìý
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This year the ceremony goes to sundown instead of being 24-hours, but the meaning behind it remains the same.Ìý
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