HSU Honors Veterans Through Sixth Annual Veterans Day Luncheon

On Veterans Day, Hardin-Simmons University gathered with community members to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces during the university’s sixth annual Veterans Day Luncheon. The event continues to grow each year, reflecting HSU’s ongoing commitment to recognizing the sacrifices and service of veterans throughout the Big Country.

The luncheon opened with the Presentation of the Colors by the Abilene High School JROTC Color Guard, followed by a performance of the National Anthem by the HSU Choir. The program featured a keynote address from retired U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sergeant Mieka Pugh before concluding with recognition of veterans in attendance.

Dr. Lauren Cantrell, program director and associate professor of social work at HSU, welcomed guests and introduced Pugh, highlighting a lifetime devoted to serving others both in and out of uniform.

“What I find especially meaningful about Mieka’s story is that her commitment to serving others did not end when she retired from the military,” Cantrell said. “It became a lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.”

Pugh retired from the United States Air Force after more than 22 years of service at the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. Throughout her career, she served in aircraft maintenance, technical training, and human resources roles before continuing her service through refugee resettlement work and her current position with the Veterans Benefits Administration.

In a deeply personal keynote address, Pugh reflected on her journey from a difficult childhood marked by homelessness and hardship to a distinguished military career. She shared stories of overcoming adversity, confronting workplace challenges, and discovering purpose through service.

“For me, it was about survival,” Pugh said of her decision to join the military. “It was about making the best of situations I found myself in, basically finding or creating a path toward something better.”

Pugh also spoke candidly about the importance of resilience, compassion, and mental health, encouraging attendees to support one another and recognize that struggles are often invisible.

“Kindness is free,” she said. “You don’t know how someone’s day is going, let alone their life. Be kind and help where you can.”

Drawing from her experiences as a First Sergeant and military leader, Pugh shared lessons learned from helping service members navigate personal crises, family struggles, and mental health challenges. Her message emphasized perseverance, courage, and the value of seeking help when needed.

“It’s okay to not be okay,” Pugh said. “It’s totally acceptable to get help.”

Following the keynote address, veterans in attendance were recognized for their service, one of the luncheon’s most meaningful traditions.

Cantrell said the event exists to ensure that veterans connected to HSU and the broader Abilene community receive the appreciation they deserve.

“More than anything, we truly want to honor those who’ve served our country,” Cantrell said. “We have many representatives here on our campus in the form of faculty, staff, students, and alumni, and they deserve that recognition.”

She added that the university’s location in a strong military community makes the annual gathering especially significant.

“We owe a great debt of gratitude,” Cantrell said. “This is just a small opportunity to celebrate and thank them for that time in service.”

Cantrell also expressed appreciation for Pugh’s willingness to share her story with attendees.

“We’re so honored,” Cantrell said. “She’s an incredible woman who continues to serve our community even after her time in service. I think we walk away with a deeper understanding and deeper appreciation of all that our veterans, especially women in the military, have to go through.”

Now in its sixth year, the Veterans Day Luncheon continues to strengthen HSU’s tradition of honoring veterans while providing an opportunity for the campus community to reflect on the sacrifices, service, and stories of those who have worn the nation’s uniform.