Merced College will once again join the community in honoring veterans and military service members this November, hosting the annual Sunrise Rotary Field of Honor and Run for the Fallen, along with several activities commemorating Veterans Day.
The Field of Honor will be on display Nov. 7-14 on the front lawn of the Merced College main campus, 3600 M Street. The display features hundreds of American flags honoring veterans, active-duty military personnel and first responders, offering visitors an opportunity to reflect on their service and sacrifice.
On Sunday, Nov. 8, the community is invited to participate in the Run for the Fallen, featuring a free 5K walk/run and 10K run beginning at 9 a.m. The day will also include a special ceremony honoring fallen service members.
Opening ceremonies for the Field of Honor will take place Sunday afternoon from 2-3 p.m., welcoming the community to gather in recognition of those who have served.
The Field of Honor will conclude Saturday, Nov. 14, with a closing ceremony from 2-3 p.m. featuring musical performances by Merced College faculty, staff and community musicians.
Additional activities that afternoon include a silent auction benefiting veterans, an art walk, food trucks and children’s games from 3-7 p.m. in the Merced College Theater plaza. The day will conclude with a Merced College Concert Band performance, “Celebrating 250 Years of American Music,” at 7:30 p.m. in the theater.
The college will also participate in the 22nd annual Merced County Veterans Day Parade on Wednesday, Nov. 11. The event begins with an opening ceremony at 1 p.m. at Bob Hart Square, followed by the parade through downtown Merced at 2 p.m.
Merced College supports veterans and military-connected students year-round through its 1st Lt. Peter J. Gallo Veterans Resource Center, which provides academic counseling, assistance with veterans’ education benefits, career resources, and a welcoming space for veterans to connect with one another. Located in the Student Union, the center helps veterans and their families navigate higher education and achieve their academic and career goals.
The community is encouraged to visit the Field of Honor throughout the week and participate in the activities honoring those who have served. For more information about the Field of Honor or to register for the Run for the Fallen, visit www.mercedfieldofhonor.org.