By Joice M. Dunn
In honor of Veterans Day, the City of Grambling and Grambling State University combined efforts to show appreciation to the community Veterans and their dependents, Monday, November 10, at the Grambling City Hall..
Virginia Scott, La Vet Corps Campus Navigator, at the university reached out to Mayor Alvin Bradley. The gathering was an opportunity to draw university and community together and allow them to meet and greet for future connections. “Louisiana Department of Veteran’s Affairs and AmeriCorps are working together to support veterans transitioning into college life,” explained Scott, who has held the university position since August. Scott said the organization’s mission is to help veterans, their families, and campus communities ensure a smooth return from active-duty service. “Through LA Vet Corps, student veterans and dependents can access education, benefits, and support services directly on campus. As school navigator, I’ll mentor student veterans, help them to access benefits, and foster an active veteran community by developing a student veterans’ organization (SVO),” according to Scott.
“This was a cooperative effort between Town of Grambling (Mayor Bradley/ Ms. Gray) American Legion Post #593 (Ronnie Lyons ~ Commander/Consuella Lockhart ~ Auxiliary president) as well as myself,” explained Scott, coordinator.
“The Program was well-attended by local veterans, community supporters (30 + attendees). The program participants included the ROTC Commander; who’s students posted the colors. There was support from campus student groups decorations/ meal service/receptionist/clean up. There were assistants who bagged presents and awards to program participants. The meal included baked chicken/mashed potatoes with gravy/spaghetti/ cake slices/lemonade or tea.”
She said, “All in all the event was well-planned/ fully supported/ timely and meaningful;”
“I was elated that a program honoring veterans was given by Grambling community. I was also glad to play a part in organizing it…always feels good giving back,” said Consuella Wiley Lockheart.
Lockheart, a Grambling State University graduate as well as member of the community, entered the military as a student member of the ROTC program.
“I was an officer in the last class of the Women’s Army Corps- a real WAC. I served four years on active duty and thirteen years in the Army Reserves. Memorable life experience!” explained Lockheart.
Grambling resident Barbara McIntyre attended the event with joy and excitement. McIntyre has served as president of the Grambling Chamber of Commerce for several years and active in many ways.
“Grambling’s Veterans Day “Appreciation Luncheon” for Veterans and their dependents was an unqualified success. LA Vet Corps Campus Navigator, Virginia Scott is new to the job but was determined to have a Veterans Day Program in Grambling,” explained McIntyre.
McIntyre said Scott was quickly able to rally the community, Grambling Branch of American Legion, GSU students, and a representative from Ruston’s VFW for a packed event at the Grambling Community Center.
“It was a balanced event that celebrated the service and sacrifice of our Grambling Veterans while allowing ample time for food and fellowship,” committed McIntyre.