BGSU establishes Veterans Memorial

Bowling Green State University is proud to establish the Veterans Memorial to commemorate individuals who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, as well as memorialize the courage, commitment and sacrifice of fallen students and alumni.

The concept of the Veterans Memorial and POW/MIA Chairs emerged from a series of conversations with BGSU veterans whose service spans from World War II to the current conflicts in the Middle East. 

Tasked with creating a plan, the University formed a committee that included retired U.S. Marine Col. Theodore “Ted” Jenkins ’54; retired Navy Capt. David Chilson ’71, ’78; Vietnam veteran David Ridenour ’70; Dr. Barbara Henry ’95, ’03, assistant vice president for non-traditional and military student services; representatives from the administration; and several students who had served in the most recent war zones. 

After several months of planning under the leadership of Jenkins, the POW/MIA Chairs of Honor were dedicated in fall 2014. The chairs are located in Doyt Perry Stadium, the Stroh Center and Slater Family Ice Arena, with two additional mobile chairs that travel to other athletic events.  

BGSU gratefully recognizes the generous lead gift from Edward J. ’62 and Linda S. ’61 Reiter that propelled the memorial vision into reality. Reiter served as a captain in the U.S. Army Reserves and as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army Adjutant General’s Corp.

We also celebrate the dedication of Jenkins, who has been instrumental in supporting veterans’ initiatives at BGSU. More than a decade ago, Jenkins first shared his vision for honoring all students and alumni who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Because of his efforts, we are breaking ground on this timeless memorial. 

This space, located in Carillon Park, is for the families and members of past conflicts, serves as a reminder for our learning community to understand service in one of its highest forms and also provides a place of solitude and contemplation for active service members on our main campus.