New Mexico State University's Air Force ROTC is hosting a candlelight vigil to honor prisoners of war and service members missing in action at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15
at Hadley Field on the NMSU Horseshow. Arnold Air Society, an honor society associated with NMSU's Air Force ROTC program, is organizing the vigil.
The solemn ceremony will include the lighting of luminarias, followed by a brief speech by Lt. Col. Ira Cline, NMSU Air Force ROTC commander and professor of aerospace studies in the College of Arts and Sciences. The entire NMSU and Las Cruces community is welcomed to attend.
"The significance of this event is to recognize those who have served our country and paid the ultimate price," Cline said. "We have lofty principles and values as a nation that set us apart from the rest of the world, and we want POWs and MIAs to know that they are not forgotten. We're very appreciative of their service."
Veterans Day is observed Monday, Nov. 11, and NMSU's Air Force ROTC is inviting the community to take part in the Friday evening event to honor POWs and MIAs and help light the luminarias.
"It's a good reminder of the cliché 'Freedom isn't free,' said Maj. Jason Adams, assistant professor of aerospace space studies. "It reminds folks that we're still out here working, defending our nation and the Constitution."
The vigil follows a host of events held in honor of the U.S. military, including NMSU's Military Appreciation Day on Nov. 9. NMSU Army ROTC cadets performed a flag raising ceremony with the university's new garrison flag, which will fly until 5 p.m. Monday, Nov 11.