“You Are Not Forgotten”: DSU Community Honors POWs and Missing Service Members
On Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, despite frigid temperatures, Delaware State University students, faculty, staff, and community members stood united in solemn tribute to service members who remain prisoners of war or missing in action. The Moment of Honor and Reflection: POW/MIA Flag Raising Ceremony, held at 11:00 a.m. in front of the Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building, marked a powerful observance during Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month.
Click here to view photos from the event
Nearly fifty attendees, including ROTC cadets who stood at parade rest throughout the ceremony, gathered in front of the Administration Building—a stirring reminder of the discipline and dedication that define military service.
The event opened with remarks from Lolita Treadwell, Director of DSU @ Dover Air Force Base, who served as emcee.
“President Lincoln once said that the nation has a debt to its defenders that it can never repay,” Treadwell noted. “Today, we gather to honor a sacred part of that debt, our solemn remembrance of those who remain prisoners of war and missing in action.”
She thanked attendees for braving the cold and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to honoring and supporting its military-affiliated community. “The POW/MIA flag we raise today is a powerful symbol of our nation’s promise: You are not forgotten. Those who served and did not return home remain forever in our hearts, our prayers, and in the values we uphold as Hornets.”
The ceremony proceeded with an invocation from Dr. Holmes, whose prayer touched on the interconnectedness of service, sacrifice, and gratitude.
Vice President James Overton followed with a personal reflection from his time as a first sergeant, recalling a moment when he explained the meaning of the POW/MIA Chair of Honor to a civilian—a conversation so moving that it brought her to tears. His story underscored how remembrance transforms hearts and keeps memory alive.
Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Jonathan Busch opened his remarks with scripture, quoting, “This is the day the Lord has made; we shall rejoice and be glad in it.” He spoke of honoring all who have served, particularly those who never returned home, and encouraged the audience to carry forward the responsibility of remembrance with gratitude and faith.
Lieutenant Commander (Ret.) Diallo Wallace brought both distinction and inspiration to the program. The recently retired U.S. Naval Academy officer and new DSU faculty member is a Naval Aviator, aerospace engineer, and founder of The Engineering and Science Academy. His presence bridged the worlds of military service, education, and innovation, reflecting our commitment to leadership and excellence.
Student veteran Julian Banks offered a heartfelt reflection that captured the spirit of the day.
“Even though I haven’t served in the military long, I understand the importance of today,” Banks said. “All the men and women who have served, and those still serving, deserve to be recognized for their dedication.”
His sincerity resonated deeply with the audience, reminding all that service is measured not by years, but by heart.
Devon Wilson, Director of Veteran Affairs, then read the Military & Veteran’s Team POW/MIA Remembrance Statement, his words serving as the signal for the flag raising to begin.
“This Chair of Honor will remain unoccupied in solemn remembrance of the service members who are Prisoners of War or Missing in Action. Though absent from our sight, they are forever present in our hearts, our prayers, and in the values we uphold at Delaware State University. Until every one of them comes home, this seat stands in their honor. Today, we further that tribute by raising the POW/MIA flag as a symbol of our commitment to never forget.”
As the POW/MIA flag was raised, the ceremony’s visual impact deepened. Retired military officers, including Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Jonathan Busch and Lieutenant Commander (Ret.) Diallo Wallace, stood shoulder to shoulder with ROTC cadets, all rendering crisp salutes against the autumn backdrop. The moment captured the continuum of service: retired officers who had devoted careers to the nation standing alongside students preparing to follow in their footsteps.
Marianah Lipkins performed the National Anthem while service members held their salutes in the cold morning air, embodying the values of courage and respect. The ceremony reached a poignant close with TAPS, performed by DSU student Kewane Schermerhorn, followed by a moment of silence. In that stillness, with flags at half-staff, hands over hearts, and cadets at attention, the entire assembly honored those who never returned home and the families who continue to wait for answers.
The program concluded with Mr. Wilson offering closing remarks that invited attendees to place white carnations at the Chair of Honor and share in a brief reception inside. The warm coffee and conversation that followed stood in gentle contrast to the solemn chill outdoors, a testament to the unity and compassion that define the Hornet community.
Leadership from across the University, including Executive Vice President Irene Hawkins and Vice President Overton, joined faculty, staff, and students in paying tribute. Their presence underscored DSU’s shared respect for service members and the families who stand behind them.
“This ceremony is brief by design,” Treadwell reflected, “but its meaning runs deep. Until they all come home, we will not forget.”
For more information about Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month events at Delaware State University, contact the Military and Veterans Team at dsumilitary-veterans [at] desu.edu.
