Montgomery County Community College thanks veterans and service members for all that they have done and continue to do to protect our country.
Through a Virtual Veterans Day Tribute, Montgomery County Community College recognizes, honors and remembers veterans and service members both at the College and throughout the nation today.
Matthew Benko, Manager of Veterans Services and Judicial Affairs at MCCC, coordinated the tribute, which highlights students, employees and their family members who served or are currently serving.
“It’s an honor to be here and to be a part of a great organization that supports our veterans and to take some time to acknowledge their service,” said Benko, who is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. “We have over 200+ military-connected and veteran students here at the school currently. In addition, we have a number of staff members, faculty members, who have served as well, and their family members. Today, we’re taking the time to recognize, acknowledge and thank them for their service.”
The tribute includes photographs of and information about veterans and service men and women, as well as reflections and words of appreciation from several veterans.
As part of the tribute, Montgomery County Sheriff Sean Kilkenny, who is a member of MCCC’s Board of Trustees, shared a few comments.
“I had the opportunity to serve in the U.S. Army for 22 years, five of which were
on active duty in three combat zones. It was the greatest experience of my life,”
said Kilkenny. “What unites all veterans is that at one point in our lives, we raised
our right hand and gave our country a blank check. A blank check to defend the Constitution
and to help each other and fellow men. I want to wish everybody a happy Veterans Day,
both in our county and college community.”
MCCC has been recognized several times as a military-friendly school by G.I. Jobs magazine for its support of veteran-students and service members. In 2019, MCCC earned the PNGAS Guard-Friendly School designation by the Pennsylvania National Guard Associations.
MCCC has a designated Veterans Resource Center where it assists students with their VA benefits, helps them transition to campus life and hosts an active Student Veterans Organization, where they can connect with other veteran-students through weekly meetings and activities. Through Prior Learning Assessment, MCCC also offers credit for eligible military experience and training.