“God, Country, Notre Dame” – an impactful phrase infused in the Notre Dame vocabulary and one that sheds light on the University’s dedication to the military, veterans, and their families since inception. The phrase is inscribed above the east door of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, honoring the 56 men from Notre Dame who gave their lives in WWI. It also sits at the center of the University’s service initiatives.
This Saturday at the Notre Dame versus Pittsburgh football game, Notre Dame will honor all military service members, veterans, and first responders at their Salute to Service game. An active duty marine corps student will present the American flag to the Irish Guard as part of the traditional pre-game ceremony. There will be on field recognition of students, staff, and faculty who are a part of our military connected community at Notre Dame. Several military tactical vehicles will be parked outside of Notre Dame Stadium for fans to visit.
The University was one of the first to host all three branches of the military, bringing the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) to campus in 1951. Since then, the program has grown with about 300 students currently serving as cadets and midshipmen, making it an essential part of student life.
Throughout the year, many programs are held on campus to provide assistance, knowledge, and recognition to servicemembers, including the Warrior Scholar Project, military appreciation sporting events, and most notably, the 24-hour Veterans Day vigil at the Clarke Memorial Fountain. Army, Navy, and Air Force ROTC cadets and midshipmen take shifts rain or shine, to stand guard at each of the fountain’s four corners. The Clarke Memorial Fountain is a tribute to those men and women who served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
Furthermore, Notre Dame has partnerships with organizations that have the same commitment to those serving or who have served. The Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore partners with Operation Hat Trick (OHT), offering a unique Notre Dame collection that displays our profound appreciation and gratitude for the military. OHT branded merchandise generates awareness and support for the recovery of wounded service members and veterans. A portion of each sale helps to fill critical gaps in care. Additionally, the bookstore’s Custom Zone presents the opportunity to get military insignias embroidered on hats for individuals to demonstrate their affinity for civic service.
As we approach both the Salute to Service game and Veterans Day, take a moment to reflect and thank our servicemembers and their families for their selfless sacrifice. God, Country, Notre Dame.