April 2, 2003

Contact: Kevin Boatright, University Relations, (785) 864-7100.

Chancellor Robert Hemenway's remarks from today's yellow-ribbon ceremony

Click here to read the news release on the ceremony

 • In recent weeks, there have been many examples of the profound respect and appreciation this university feels toward the men and women who serve in the U.S. armed forces. Today is another expression of that sentiment.

 • Just yesterday, a splendid cartoon was published in the University Daily Kansan with the legend: "Our thoughts and prayers are with our faculty, alumni, staff and students who serve."

 • At this time, we know of at least 27 students who have left school for active military duty, along with several employees and, no doubt, a considerable number of alumni.

 • Even before the war began, on the night of March 13, student Kevin Seaman sent me an e-mail, suggesting yellow ribbons as an appropriate expression of campus support for men and women in uniform.

 • Kevin said: "I think that most people would agree that we support our soldiers serving their country and wish them a safe return."

 • The Campanile tolls every quarter-hour in memory of KU students who gave their lives in World War II.

 • As we hear it ring, let the sound of the bells continually remind us of our present-day Jayhawks in harm's way, and our prayers for their safe return.

 • Yellow ribbons are a symbolic way of expressing support for those in uniform. We all can consider more tangible expressions, including cash contributions to the American Red Cross or a blood donation.

 • Also, if you know someone with a family member in the military at this time -- such as Byron and Sandra Loudon of Overland Park or Joe and Roi Holladay of Lawrence -- do what you can in small and personal ways to tell those people you share their concerns, bear their burden, and care deeply about them and their loved ones.

 • Today, we gather together to make visible our feelings of support for all U.S. servicemen and women.

 • But we hold especially close to our hearts those students, staff and alumni who would rather be spending this beautiful spring day on Jayhawk Boulevard, gearing up for Finals or preparing for the Final Four.

 • To them I say: We treasure you, we value your immense personal sacrifice, and we look forward to a time when we can welcome all of you home to Lawrence and KU.