East Tennessee State University is honoring military service members throughout November with major events celebrating veterans and showcasing the university’s deep commitment to those who have served.

What is the Quilts of Valor Ceremony at ETSU?

Sherrod Library is partnering with Veterans Affairs and the Quilts of Valor ® Southern Appalachian group to host a ceremony honoring several veterans with handmade quilts. ETSU Provost Dr. Kimberly D. McCorkle will speak at the event.

A Quilt of Valor ® is a quality, handmade quilt awarded to service members or veterans who have been touched by war.

When: Monday, November 10, 2-3 p.m.
Where: Sherrod Library Student Commons (first floor)

When is ETSU's Veterans Day ceremony?

When: Wednesday, November 12, 10 a.m.
Where: Veterans Memorial (Brooks Gym in case of inclement weather)

ETSU’s annual Veterans Day ceremony will honor the nation’s military veterans, including the university's own student, staff and faculty veterans.

The program features:

  • Arnold W. “Arnie” Bunch Jr. as the guest speaker. He is a retired four-star general and presently serves as superintendent of schools in Hamblen County.  
  • ETSU ROTC cadets conducting a roll call for ETSU ROTC alumni killed in action
  • Color Guard wreath placement at the Veterans Memorial
  • Taps
  • Performances from Department of Music faculty and University School Choir

All ETSU faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to attend as the university pays tribute to the sacrifices and courage of veterans.

Veterans can get free lunch  

Following the Veterans Day ceremony, all veterans and military service members – including ETSU students, faculty, staff and community members – are invited to enjoy a free lunch at the ETSU Dining Hall on the third floor of the D.P. Culp Student Center.

Veterans can pick up free meal tickets at:

  • Military and Veteran Services, Lucille Clement Hall
  • ETSU Army ROTC, 206 Brooks Gym
  • Mary Jordan Center, D.P. Culp Student Center, second floor

What is Military Appreciation Day at ETSU?

When: Saturday, November 22
Where: ETSU Football Game

ETSU Athletics is rolling out the red carpet for military appreciation with special recognitions throughout the game, including military-specific television timeouts and on-field honors.

The celebration will feature military vehicles on campus and special activities throughout game day, including the Golden Knights U.S. Army Parachute team. Watch for more details as the date approaches.

Why is ETSU recognized as military-friendly?

These November events reflect ETSU’s year-round commitment to supporting military-affiliated students – one that has earned impressive national recognition.

U.S. Veterans Magazine recently named ETSU a 2025 Yellow Ribbon School, the latest in a streak of military-friendly honors. Just this year, ETSU has:

  • Slashed tuition rates for active-duty military students by nearly 50%
  • Maintained its Military Friendly® School designation for the 15th consecutive year

What support does ETSU offer military-affiliated students?

ETSU's military-friendly designation is not just about recognition. It is about real programs making a real difference:

  • Financial support that works. Active-duty military undergraduates using Department of Defense Tuition Assistance pay no more than $250 per credit hour, thanks to recent Board of Trustees action. ‍
  • Personalized guidance. From priority registration to specialized advising, ETSU recognizes that military-affiliated students have unique needs. ‍
  • Faculty who understand. Through Green Zone training, ETSU faculty and staff develop a deeper understanding of the student veteran experience, creating supportive classroom environments.

How can veterans connect with ETSU support services?

Staff at ETSU are committed to assisting veterans and all military-affiliated students.

  • Call: (423) 439-6819

Whether you’re a prospective student exploring your options, a current student navigating your academic journey or a community member looking to participate in November’s events, ETSU welcomes you to join in honoring those who have served.

For anyone needing disability accommodations for events, contact the ETSU Office of Disability Services at (423) 439-8346.