It takes a certain type of person to dedicate their life and time to serve in the United States military. It takes even more for that particular person to enroll back into school after what they have been through. That’s why the Military and Veterans Club of Kean University exists – to take ownership of the narrative of what it means to be a veteran on a college campus.

Many people don’t realize that the people they cross paths with day to day on campus have served the country in one way or another. When rummaging through the group’s profile on Cougar Link, it might come as a surprise that they have over 40 members listed in their roster; almost each name coupled with a picture of a man or woman in uniform. According to Vice President and Public Relations Representative Elio Bustamante, currently all members of the club (with the exception of one person who is extremely passionate towards the cause) are veterans or active military personnel themselves. 

Three members of the Military & Veterans Club of Kean University
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So what does it mean to be a part of the armed forces? To most it’s a position of utmost importance that our country relies on. To some who don’t agree with the concept of war and violence, it’s an unnecessary part of power-hungry patriotism. Regardless of what side of the argument one chooses to take, the U.S. soldiers serve a great purpose.  

“[Being involved in the armed forces] means serving our country and defending our nation and the rights of its citizens,” said Dionicio Estrella, president of the Military and Veterans Club.

Other members of the club are devoted to the purpose of helping those in similar situations transition successfully back into college life. Bustamante knows the struggle all too well, being a first semester returning veteran after serving in the Marine Corps since 2009. After his first semester at Kean University prior to enlistment, Bustamante unfortunately ran out of funds and decided to join the military.

“I want to help out other veterans and people still in the military transition. [I want to] show awareness to this campus and community of the veterans that are here,” said Bustamante.

The Military and Veterans Club is planning to honor their fellow vets with their annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, November 11, 2015. Taking place on the Miron Student Center patio, they will be encouraging students to take the time to acknowledge the reason behind the holiday.

Flyer and invitation for the Veterans Day ceremony
Photo courtesy of the Military & Veterans Club of Kean University 

Along with this ceremony, they will be partnering up with The Leadership Institute of Kean University for this year’s mission of assisting the Veterans Affairs Hospital of New Jersey in South Orange. Whether enrolled or just an ally, active involvement in patriotism can be beneficial to the soul.

“Being in the marines taught me how to adapt and be culturally tolerant,” said Bustamante, who has visited and resided everywhere from Japan to Cambodia to Australia and beyond.