So proudly we hail'd

The Penn College community commended its veterans, active-duty personnel and reservists late last week through a variety of events captured by cross-campus photo contributors. Supplementing an online honor roll of self-identifying servicemen and women that was posted to PCToday, the week included a classroom visit from the head of a veteran-owned Williamsport security business; a Thursday reception organized by Kimberly S. Cordrey, Lumley Aviation Center secretary; the Wildcat Events Board's "Red, White & Blue Day" celebration in the Field House (moved indoors due to Friday's heavy rains); and a stylish Saturday salute from Wildcat cheerleaders in Bardo Gym.

 

Jacob D. Yoas – who also performs as Heartstrings with siblings Brian and Maria – offers an eclectic playlist throughout Friday's Field House event. Yoas, of South Williamsport, is a forest technology student.

Student leader T.J Gilbert, of Blairsville, active on campus and off (including service to the Loyalsock Volunteer Fire Co.), prepares his toss at The Hatchet House's portable booth. Pursuing a bachelor's in residential construction technology and management, he will pick up an associate degree in building construction technology at Dec. 17 commencement.

Cellphone cameras immortalize a bull's-eye thrown by Logan B. Westlake, of Bechtelsville, enrolled in electronics & computer engineering technology: robotics & automation emphasis. The Hatchet House shares owners with Dad's BBQ, which served chicken and mac 'n' cheese nearby.

Adding their personal touch to Wildcat Events Board T-shirts at the tie-dying table are first-year students Ralph R. Courtright III, of Milford, construction management, and Kim J. Benny, of Delta, architecture & sustainable design.

With the side door open for access to the food truck, Old Glory – an apt reminder of the occasion – ripples in the evening breeze.

Benny displays the result of her craft: a colorful sunburst reflecting the evening's red, white and blue theme.

The Field House provides room for all manner of simultaneous activity, including the ever-popular cornhole.

The Penn College cheerleading squad aids the home-court cause at Saturday's men's basketball game against Clarks Summit University ...

... brightly accenting their uniforms ...

... with red, white and blue bows that shouted "USA!" and spelled victory for the Wildcats.

Flags, favors and food await those attending the second annual veterans luncheon at the Aviation Center. Also on the menu? Pulled pork prepared by Cordrey's husband, Wayne (also a veteran); meatballs; mac 'n' cheese; cole slaw, baked beans and pasta salad; Buffalo chicken dip; chips; bologna and cheese; and the aforementioned cupcakes. "We love our veterans," Cordrey said. "It's the least we could do ... and as long as I am at the Aviation Center, we plan on doing this for them!"

Laney E. Heller, of Cogan Station, a 2021 baking & pastry arts grad working toward a bachelor’s in applied management – characterized by Cordrey as "the best cupcake maker ever!" – contributed her sweet specialty to the airport event.

Students, faculty and staff break bread and enjoy the camaraderie ...

... and gather for a portrait of selfless service to their grateful nation.

Veterans were entered to win one of these American flags made by the Cordreys ...

... and received a "thank you" from the regional Blue Star Mothers of America chapter.

The president of ClearView Asset Protection LLC, a local veteran-owned business, talks with instructor William A. Schlosser's Technological Elements in Emergency Management class (BEM250). Lance Thomas’ presentation included ways that his company uses quickly deployable camera systems, coupled with artificial intelligence, to enhance security and safety. Students were able to examine the actual workings of the equipment and discuss beneficial instances involving Clearview’s products, including updated Amber Alerts and missing/endangered person alerts.