Strolling through campus I see several camouflage backpacks, and those humping them might as well have faces of the same pattern.

Veterans on this campus have yet to reveal themselves. Some of them, they, hide behind an experience few have witnessed.  As a 2-tour Marine veteran, I know the feeling.

Thousands of new born college kids kick around in the quad chatting about things that don’t matter, while most of their behavior in the classroom is instinctive to slapping them in the back of the head.  I haven’t done it. Yet.

My time here at DVC was like a mission received from a Captain. I took it seriously. And even though I’m transferring, I know this campus, and this community of veterans, has immense potential to fight for and strengthen our systems of support.    

In addition, like many of us have up to now, we must participate in our community. We have to educate ourselves about the benefits we deserve, communicate among our peers, and organize around our values. This is a crucial time for us, and with hundreds of more veterans set to land  at DVC very soon:  it’s our responsibility.  

Go to www.dvcveterans.org and become a member.