President Choi's Blog

Honoring courage and service on Veterans Day

Nov. 12, 2025


Col. John Clark addresses attendees at the wreath-laying ceremony.
Col. John Clark addresses attendees at the wreath-laying ceremony.

On Monday afternoon, we recognized Veterans Day with our 99th annual wreath-laying ceremony under the Memorial Union archway. The ceremony honored the sacrifice and dedication of our Mizzou student-veterans with support from representatives of the MU Student Veterans Resource & Support Center, Navy and Army ROTC. 

This year, retired Air Force Col. John Clark from Columbia shared his story of resilience and courage. Col. Clark was downed by anti-aircraft fire and subsequently captured in North Vietnam in 1967. This led to nearly six years as a prisoner of war in Hỏa Lò Prison, alongside former Senator John McCain. During this time, Col. Clark was listed as missing in action and presumed lost until nearly four years later when the first letter he wrote to his family finally arrived. He was released on February 18, 1973. 

Col. Clark is a Hickman High School graduate and a Mizzou alumnus. During his remarks, he emphasized the pride and power each member of the military holds, whether serving during a time of war or peace. His book, “The Eagle Hunts,” recounts his time spent during and after capture. It is available through the MU Veterans Center.

Laying the wreath beneath the Memorial Union archway.
Laying the wreath beneath the Memorial Union archway.

Mizzou is committed to serving our veterans, active-duty students and their families. The MU Veterans Center offers resources, support and fellowship for military-connected students, and the Mizzou Law Veterans Clinic provides free legal services for our veterans. The university is recognized as a 2025-26 Gold Award Military Friendly School and a 2025-26 Military Spouse Friendly School, representing our continued dedication to Mizzou’s military community. We are also proud that MU Veterans Center Director Keith Glindemann recently received the Ron York Meritorious Service Award from the National Association of Veterans Program Administrators, commending more than two decades of service to the veteran community. 

Thank you to Col. Clark for sharing your message of bravery and commitment to others. I also want to honor and thank all Mizzou student-veterans for serving Missouri and our country. 

— Mun