This Veterans Day, Missouri State University welcomes the community to come together to honor the courage, sacrifice and service of those who have defended our nation.  

The Veterans Day celebration features a Veterans Day Breakfast and Taps Project on Nov. 11.  

“At Missouri State, we’re proud to stand alongside those who’ve served,” said Brent Dunn, Missouri State vice president for university advancement and Missouri State Foundation executive director. “This event is more than a ceremony — it’s a moment for our campus and community to unite in gratitude and to recognize our veterans’ strength and resilience.” 

A morning of appreciation 

The free event, presented by Central Bank/Central Trust, is for alumni, students, faculty, staff and community members who are veterans. Breakfast will begin at 8:30 a.m. followed by the program at 9 a.m. in the Plaster Student Union (PSU) Ballroom (doors open at 8 a.m.). Register by Nov. 4. 

Guests will hear from guest speaker Kevin Weaver, president, CEO and co-founder of The Warrior’s Journey. He is a military veteran of the U.S. Air Force and the father of two sons currently serving in the U.S. Army. 

The event also includes music and service songs performed by the 135th Army Band and a Color Guard presentation by the Pershing Rifles Company. 

After the breakfast, the Taps Project will begin outside the south side of McDonald Arena at 10:55 a.m. The national anthem will be followed by a cascading sounding of taps by Missouri State trumpeters at 11:11 a.m. in partnership with the department of military science. 

Parking is available in Lot 54, across JQH Parkway from Great Southern Bank Arena, with golf cart shuttles to and from the PSU. Limited additional parking is in Lot 14 at Bear Boulevard and National Avenue.

Heroes Day

On Nov. 15, the university invites veterans, as well as current military and emergency services personnel to Heroes Day at the Bears Homecoming football game against the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). The game begins at 2 p.m. in Plaster Stadium. 

Each hero will receive one free ticket. Friends and family may purchase companion tickets for $8 each plus fees online.  

Register for the Veterans Day Breakfast