The UCOP Veterans Among US (VAUS) employee resource group has shared three commemorations of September events with connections to the U.S. Armed Forces.

Anniversary of 9/11

Skyline view of the 9/11 Memorial Beams with the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan. (Credit: Brian E Kushner/Adobe Stock)

Last week, VAUS joined our nation in remembering the lives lost and forever changed on Sept. 11, 2001, honoring the nearly 3,000 innocent people who died in the attacks, the first responders who ran toward danger without hesitation and the countless families who carry the weight of that day in their hearts.

VAUS also recognizes the many service members, past and present, who answered the call to serve in the aftermath — many of whom are part of our own university community. For our veterans, military-connected students and those who serve today, 9/11 is a deeply personal reminder of sacrifice, resilience and duty.

Let us reflect not only on the tragedy but on our collective responsibility to promote understanding, service and unity in the hopes of striving for a greater purpose of humanity. We remember. We honor. We will never forget.

Hispanic Heritage Month

Caption: Gen. Richard E. Cavazos, first Hispanic four-star general in the U.S. Army and posthumous recipient of the Medal of Honor; Carmen Lozano Dumler, one of the first Puerto Rican women to become a U.S. Army officer; and Master Sergeant Roy Benavidez, Medal of Honor recipient. (Credit: VA News)

From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, VAUS proudly celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the rich histories, cultures and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

We are especially proud to recognize the extraordinary legacy of Hispanic and Latino service members, including past and present UC employees, who have worn the uniform of the U.S. Armed Forces with courage, pride and unwavering commitment.

From the battlefield to the classroom, Hispanic veterans and military families have made profound contributions to our nation and to our university community. Their stories of service and resilience are deeply woven into the fabric of American history and into the heart of each other. Let us honor their legacy, celebrate their culture and uplift their presence — not just this month, but every day.

U.S. Air Force Birthday

An F-22 Raptor assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., flies during Weapons System Evaluation Program 25.09 over Tyndall AFB, Fla., Sep. 8, 2025. The data collected from WSEP is sent to key military leaders to provide insight into the combat readiness of the Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Zeeshan Naeem)

On Sept.18, VAUS will proudly recognize the birthday of the United States Air Force, established on September 18, 1947. Born from a vision of innovation, excellence and air superiority, the Air Force has remained steadfast in its mission: “To fly, fight and win… airpower anytime, anywhere.”

VAUS takes this opportunity to honor and celebrate the brave men and women, past and present, who have served in the U.S. Air Force. Their dedication to service, commitment to national security and contributions to advancing aerospace technology continue to inspire our academic and veteran communities alike.

To our students, faculty, staff and alumni who have worn the Air Force uniform: Thank you for your service, your leadership and your continued contributions to both our nation.

Let us take a moment today to reflect on the legacy of the Air Force and recognize the core values it upholds: Integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do. Happy birthday to the U.S. Air Force. “Aim high … fly-fight-win!”

About Veterans Among US

The VAUS employee resource group is dedicated to serving and supporting our local and military communities, as well as the University of California and all its locations. All UCOP employees are welcome and encouraged to participate. We aim to encourage employees to actively take part in activities and events that uphold veterans, military service organizations and academia.

We are dedicated to enhancing the well-being of the broader military and local communities. Our commitment also involves fostering inclusivity and providing support as a collective effort for veteran employees and their families. We seek to cultivate meaningful connections rooted in armed services affiliations, encompassing personal and family ties, along with a shared admiration for the armed services.

For questions, membership info or to join the email list, contact vaus@ucop.edu.

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