Copyright Staten Island Advance
STATEN ISLAND, NY — Wagner College will host its 15th annual Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 10:30 a.m., featuring keynote speaker Fredrick Williamson, a distinguished alumnus and decorated Vietnam veteran. The ceremony will take place at Delta Nu Memorial, directly outside the Spiro Sports Center, and will honor the service and sacrifice of men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The event includes a light breakfast and is free and open to the public. Williamson, a 1964 Wagner graduate, received two Silver Stars for “conspicuous gallantry” and “bravery in action” during his thirteen-month tour of duty in Vietnam, as well as a Purple Heart for wounds received in battle. He achieved the rank of captain in a Rifle Company. “Veterans Day reminds us to take a moment and pause to recognize the extraordinary service and sacrifice of those who have worn our nation’s uniform,” said Jenny Kelly, director of Alumni & Development Events. “Having Fred Williamson — one of our own alumni and a decorated Vietnam veteran — join us as keynote speaker makes this year’s remembrance especially meaningful. His courage, leadership, and continued commitment to service, and to Wagner College, embody the values we strive to uphold as members of this community.” Beyond his military service, Williamson has maintained strong ties to Wagner College for decades. The Middletown, New Jersey, native was a three-year football letterwinner and captain of the 1963 team while also competing on the track and field team. He was honored at Wagner’s 1966 Homecoming with the Alumni Special Recognition Award while still on military leave. Williamson served as a Wagner Board of Trustee member for more than 20 years, including roles as board treasurer and chair of the Athletics Committee. He also held positions as vice chair of the Wagner Audit Committee and served on the Investment and Business & Finance Committees. From 1990-1996, he led the National Alumni Association and received the inaugural Kevin Sheehy NAA Alumni Leadership Medal in 2004. He has supported numerous Wagner programs financially, including athletics teams, the Stadium Lights Project and the Gregory P. Knapp Strength Room. Williamson was awarded an honorary doctor of humane letters degree during Wagner’s 2011 commencement ceremony. Wagner College, along with distinguished alumni of the Delta Nu Fraternity, organizes the annual ceremony to provide an opportunity for students, alumni, faculty, and community members to gather in gratitude and reflection. For more information, contact Jenny Kelly at j.kelly@wagner.edu.
