Honors Alumni Who Lost Lives in Service to America
WASHINGTON – Returning today to his alma mater at Duke University for the dedication of a Veterans memorial, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki honored alumni who have lost their lives in service to America.
“Duke has many distinguished alumni, but I’d argue that the names on this memorial represent the most distinguished,” Secretary Shinseki said. “They represent extraordinary courage and dedication in the face of great adversity. This memorial affirms that free people can bend history in the direction of our best hopes, and ensure that their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Shinseki joined Duke President Richard H. Brodhead in dedicating a plaque inscribed with the names of alumni who died in battle during the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and combat in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as the names of alumni who died on active duty since World War II. The event was held in Duke Chapel Memorial Quad where the current World War II memorial resides.
“Those we honor today answered their call to duty, and in doing so, they honored their heritage, their people and our Nation,” Shinseki said. “Now it’s our duty to honor the legacy of these men and women by introducing them to young Americans everywhere.”
While in Durham, Secretary Shinseki toured the Durham VA Medical Center to better understand its partnership with Duke University. He also met with students who are in the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) or attending the university under VA sponsored programs, such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon Program.
Secretary Shinseki graduated from Duke University in 1976 with a master’s degree. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and is a graduate of the National War College.
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