Rider University plants flags to honor veterans

LAWRENCE, N.J. (WPVI) -- They stand in silent witness. 10,000 American flags on the mall at Rider University planted by students, ROTC members, and community volunteers to honor the men and women who've served our nation in the Armed Forces.

"It's a remembrance of all those who have served, who never made it back home and for our brothers who may have come back home damaged in some way or another," SSgt. Russel Melville of the U.S. Army Reserve said.

"When you see it, it's definitely a huge statement. You see all the signs and all the lives lost. It's a big deal every year," student Kate Rella said.

"I don't know if other schools do this or not, but I really loved that we do. Because it shows we actually care," student Valerie Consodine said.

The patriotic display has special meaning for senior Rob Pycior whose father John, a Navy officer, was killed at the Pentagon on 9/11.

Pycior knows all too well the sacrifices the military and their families make.

"I find this extremely personal. I think it's really important to share the message, the sacrifices that they make, sacrificing time with their family, no Christmas, no Thanksgiving, missing the birth of loved ones," Pycior said.

At a ceremony on campus, a wreath was laid and series of speakers talked about the meaning of Veterans Day.

"It makes me proud of my service and proud and happy to know that people care about the services our military members have provided for our country," SSgt. Ron Sapp of the NJ Army National Guard said.

Rider University was founded in 1865. The display is meant to honor its graduates who served in the Armed Forces going all the way back to the Civil War.

"Remembering the veterans that have fallen in combat. It's very special to see. It's heartfelt to have that recognized," Brigadier General and Rider graduate Robert Karmazin said.

And so as Veterans Day draws closer, the current generation at Rider remembers past generations and all who served.