WNMU’s Coll speaks at Veterans Day service

By JUNO OGLE Daily Press Staff Speaking at the American Legion’s Veterans Day observance Wednesday morning, Western New Mexico University’s president called on his fellow veterans to carry the warrior ethos into their daily lives. WNMU President Jose Coll was the featured speaker at the event. He served in the U.S. Marines from 1996 to 2001. He outlined the history of veterans’ recognition, and how Armistice Day — honoring World War I veterans — became Veterans Day in 1954 under President Dwight D. Eisenhower. “The goal was simple, yet enduring, to ensure that we honor the living veterans of all wars, from every branch of every era,” Coll said. “That history reminds us of a humbling truth about our republic: Freedom has never been self-sustaining.” He noted that less than 1 percent of Americans have taken the oath to serve in the military. “That tiny fraction stands watch while families sleep,” Coll said.

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