First they were leathernecks, grunts, flyboys and squids. Now they are Cougars.
To honor the 230 military veterans who are now College of Charleston students, as well as the many military veterans among the College’s faculty and staff, the College will hold a Veterans Day Celebration in the Cistern Yard on November 10, 2017.
American war hero Lt. Clebe McClary is the keynote speaker at the Veterans Day celebration.
Free and open to the public, the hour-long event will begin at 4 p.m. with a presentation of colors by the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard from Joint Base Charleston, followed by welcoming remarks from College of Charleston President Glenn F. McConnell ’69 before the keynote address by retired 1st Lt. Patrick “Clebe” McClary III, USMC.
A Lowcountry native, Clebe McClary was a platoon leader in the First Reconnaissance Battalion during the Vietnam War when his unit was attacked by the Viet Cong. Although he was seriously wounded, losing his left arm and left eye, he continued to lead his men. In the years that followed his numerous surgeries and rehabilitation, McClary has become a symbol of courage and hope to the many audiences around the world with whom he has shared his story. This American hero is a recipient of the Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor in the State of South Carolina, and has also received the Silver Star, Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts. 
In 2015, the College established the Veteran and Military Student Service Center to meet the unique needs of veteran students. The center, part of the Office of Academic Experience, is overseen by Jessica Wilkes, a former combat videographer with the U.S. Air Force.
The Veterans Day Celebration is hosted by the School of Professional Studies at the College of Charleston in partnership with Prudential Financial, Veterans Initiatives and the Tri-County Veterans Support Network.
For more information, contact the School of Professional Studies at 843.953.6684.
