Veterans Day at the University of New Haven

The University of New Haven hosted its 21st Annual Veterans Day Observance on Thursday, November 10.

Speakers at this year’s event included Sergeant Major of the Army Michael A. Grinston, the Army’s top enlisted leader, whose deployments include Operation Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, New Dawn, Inherent Resolve, and Enduring Freedom. His awards and decorations include the Army Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (2nd award), Bronze Star Medal with Valor (2nd award), and the Bronze Star medal (3rd award).

Army Major Kristen Griest, one of the first two women to graduate from Ranger School in 2015 and the first female infantry officer in U.S. history, also spoke at the event. She commanded the first gender-integrated infantry company. Griest’s accomplishments paved the way for the next generation of female Army leaders.

Ten veteran students received the Connecticut Wartime Service Medal. Participating in the ceremony with Grinston and Griest will be Joseph Danao ’04 M.S., Director of Projects and Operations for the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs.