A Heartfelt Tribute: New WWII Memorial Plaque Unveiled at University of Texas

A Heartfelt Tribute in Austin: New Memorial Plaque Unveiled for WWII Veterans

Austin, Texas, recently witnessed a touching moment as the University of Texas unveiled a new memorial plaque dedicated to honoring armed forces veterans and former students who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. This commemorative event took place at the university’s annual wreath-laying ceremony, capturing the attention and respect of many.

A Celebration of Lives Lost

The plaque, which is located to the right of the Gate 8 entrance of the renowned Royal-Memorial Stadium, showcases a list of 664 names in raised gold letters, representing all the known former students of UT who died during the war. The stadium itself holds significance as it stands as the largest war memorial in Texas, and it celebrated its 100th birthday just days after the ceremony.

UT President Jay Hartzell, in a heartfelt address, declared, “Their service will never be forgotten.” His remarks resonated deeply as he spoke at the Frank Denius Family University of Texas Athletics Hall of Fame before the unveiling of the plaque and the wreath-laying ritual. The Royal-Memorial Stadium, initially called War Memorial Stadium, was created to honor the 198,520 Texans who served in World War I, and later, it became a tribute for veterans of all wars.

A Community Effort

Retired Lt. Gen. Lawson Magruder III, who heads the President’s Stadium Veterans Committee, expressed gratitude for the support that made the plaque possible. Distinguished donor Richard Wade, a 1970 UT engineering graduate and former Naval ROTC member, was recognized for his generosity in contributing to this project. The committee was also bolstered by efforts from Hartzell’s office, the athletic department, and the Division of Planning, Design, and Construction.

Words to Live By

Another key speaker at the ceremony, Gen. James Rainey, who leads the U.S. Army Futures Command, emphasized the importance of honoring the sacrifices of veterans in our daily lives. He urged, “How are we going to honor their sacrifice in perpetuity? In the way we live our lives.” Rainey’s words encouraged attendees to think about how they can contribute to society and those around them, living beyond themselves.

A Connection to History

UT’s past is intertwined with the sacrifices of its students. Thomas Hatfield, dean emeritus and director of the Military History Institute, shared stories of three graduates whose leadership played vital roles in the American victory in World War II. He poignantly reflected on the university’s education helping prepare these brave individuals for the challenges they faced.

A New Generation of Leaders

This year, UT welcomed its largest ROTC class in a decade, with 265 cadets and midshipmen enrolled. Cadet Mia Walker, a senior who hails from an “Army family,” shared her experiences training alongside her peers at the crack of dawn. With her eyes set on becoming an Army officer after graduation, Mia emphasized that being part of the ROTC program provided her with a sense of community and camaraderie.

Honoring a Legacy

As Mia stood in uniform before the newly unveiled plaque, she expressed her overwhelming emotions, saying quietly, “We live in a different world” due to the sacrifices made by veterans. She encouraged others to take a moment this Veterans Day to reflect on the countless Americans whose bravery and selflessness have shaped the nation.

A Memorable Game Day

On the day following the ceremony, the university honored veterans at its annual recognition football game, where the Texas team triumphed over Florida with an impressive score of 49-17. During each home game, a military flyover has become a cherished tradition, enriching the atmosphere and reminding all attendees of the sacrifices made by service members.

In a closing sentiment, President Hartzell remarked on the significance of World War II, calling it a “turning point” not just for the university but for the world as a whole. With 11,000 Longhorns serving in the war, it is clear that the legacy of service and sacrifice remains ever-present in the heart of the university.