As Americans pause to recognize the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, Cedarville University honored the nation's military veterans during its annual Veterans Day chapel on Wednesday, Nov. 11. The special service featured reflections from a retired Air Force veteran and a musical tribute recognizing veterans from each branch of the military.
Dr. Don Rhymer, associate professor of mechanical engineering at Cedarville and a 24-year Air Force veteran, delivered the chapel address. Rhymer, who joined Cedarville's faculty in 2026, previously spent 12 years teaching engineering mechanics at the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Drawing from his experiences growing up in a military family and later serving in the Air Force, Rhymer reflected on the commitment and sacrifices associated with military service. He also highlighted four engineering students he taught at the Air Force Academy, sharing their stories as examples of the individuals who dedicate their lives to serving their country.
Throughout his message, Rhymer paid tribute to America's veterans while emphasizing the important role of military families. His remarks recognized not only those who wear the nation's uniform but also the spouses, children and other family members who share in the sacrifices of military service.
The chapel concluded with a patriotic musical tribute as Cedarville University's orchestra performed the official songs of the U.S. military branches. As each song was played, veterans representing the respective branches were invited to the stage for recognition, providing an opportunity for students, faculty and staff to express their gratitude for their service.
Observed nationally each Nov. 11, Veterans Day commemorates the service of all U.S. military veterans, both living and deceased. Originally established as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, the observance was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize Americans who served in all wars. Unlike Memorial Day, which specifically honors those who died while serving in the military, Veterans Day recognizes everyone who has served in the nation's Armed Forces.
For Cedarville University, the annual chapel serves as more than a patriotic tradition. It provides an opportunity to encourage the next generation to understand the cost of freedom, appreciate the commitment of military personnel and their families, and recognize the enduring importance of service, sacrifice and leadership.
Through its annual Veterans Day observance, Cedarville continues its tradition of honoring those who have served while encouraging students to demonstrate gratitude and respect for the men and women whose sacrifices have helped preserve America's freedoms.
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,542 students, it is among Ohio's largest private universities and is ranked among the nation’s top five evangelical universities in the Wall Street Journal’s 2027 Best Colleges in the U.S. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.