Auburn, Ala. (EETV)— Auburn University is preparing for its annual Military Appreciation Football Game against Louisiana-Monroe Nov. 16. The Army and Air Force ROTC programs and the Auburn Student Veterans Association (ASVA) lead a week of tributes to honor veterans and active-duty service members.
This week is designed to foster community recognition through events and gatherings, concluding in a patriotic game-day experience for the Auburn community.
The pre-game color guard ceremony will feature ROTC cadets, while the halftime show will honor community veterans. Auburn’s marching band will add a powerful tribute to the day with an exceptional performance of patriotic songs and a salute to the armed forces, emphasizing the university’s longstanding respect for those who serve.
Throughout the week, cadets and veterans will also participate in community service events and share stories of their ROTC journeys and paths to military service.
The events kick off Monday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day, with U.S. Army displays on campus at 8 a.m., followed by a Military Appreciation Breakfast in the Student Activities Center.
As the week progresses, there will be opportunities to learn about various military branches, starting with U.S. Navy and Marine Corps displays on Tuesday, Nov. 12. On Wednesday, the Alabama National Guard and Air National Guard will host noon Cater Lawn displays showcasing their roles and missions. Thursday will begin early with U.S. Air Force and Space Force displays at 6 a.m., followed by a “Veterans Yoga on the Plains” session in the Rec & Wellness Mind Body Room to promote wellness for veterans. Patriots on the Plains will also host an event at noon on Cater Lawn.
Auburn University’s tradition of honoring its military community continues Friday with the Military Appreciation Reception at 4 p.m., where active and retired service members can gather to celebrate Auburn’s military legacy.
ASVA also offers discounted game tickets for veterans and active-duty service members, ensuring they can attend the Auburn v. Vanderbilt and Military Appreciation Game.
The game holds special significance for Auburn’s ROTC cadets, embodying the connection between their military futures and Auburn’s proud service history. As one Air Force ROTC cadet and senior student reflected, “ROTC has given us experiences that connect us to Auburn’s military legacy while preparing us as future leaders.”
With Auburn ROTC, ASVA, and the community collaborating, Military Appreciation Week and the upcoming game promise to foster unity, reflection, and Auburn pride.
