For over two decades now, military personnel from around the world have come to Emporia and been asked a simple question: “What is a veteran?”
The question has been posed during an annual educational trip to the founding city of Veterans Day as part of the Fort Leavenworth Command and General Staff College program, which welcomes officers from various countries to America for a ten-month program that provides students with a comprehensive education on United States military tactics, history, and American culture. Leading the trip for the past several years has been Field Program Chair David Bornn Jr of the International Military Student Division, who says the entire point is to demonstrate America’s dedication to its servicemen and women both during and after their years of duty.
Bornn says this year’s class has had a very unique experience compared to others, as it comes during the 250th anniversary of America. Bornn says he believes that once the students look past the “pomp and circumstance” of the occasion, they have been able to see the true meaning of independence: the people.
As part of Tuesday’s visit to Emporia, students in this year’s cohort received a tour of the All Veterans Memorial and a presentation on the definition of veterans and the various organizations, such as the American Legion, which played host to the cohort once again, that support veterans following their time in the military. The presentation led to many takeaways for attendees, including Lt. Colonel Yazeed Alshehri of Saudi Arabia, who says the volunteer aspect of the American military is something he greatly appreciated.
For Colombian Major Cristan Rincon, veteran status was not a new concept, nor is the existence of veteran service organizations, noting they have them as well in his country. However, the number of organizations and the level of support they provide were far and away larger than he is accustomed to, and have created a “new perspective” for him.
Similarly, Major Anthares Salindeho of Indonesia stated that veteran status exists in his country; however, the equality among veterans, regardless of years of service or rank, that he has seen in America is something he has not seen before.
Major Pepin Kouame of Ivory Coast says he was impressed by how Americans respond to any service member, no matter where they are from, noting many Americans have already thanked him for his service during his time with the program. He tells KVOE News this is something he would like to see more of in his country, as he believes great respect leads to stronger service.
In addition to Legion members, local leaders were also in attendance for Tuesday’s presentation, including Lyon County Commission Chairman Ken Duft, who called the opportunity an enlightening experience, especially learning the differences between what defines a veteran in other countries.
Emporia City Commissioner Tammi Ogle was also attending the program for the first time and says she was so honored to receive the invitation.
Following the presentation on veterans and veteran organizations, members of the class enjoyed a meal with American Legion members and local veterans, gaining insight into their personal stories of service and dedication to the country. Many of the program representatives would return this kindness as they enjoyed the final half of the Argentina-Egypt World Cup match, providing commentary and insight into the game, which many of the local representatives called a great cultural experience.
This year’s contingent of the Command and General Staff College represents more than 75 countries.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
