The ROTC cadets and military veterans were up before dawn on Friday for a run commemorating National Veteran Patients Month.

According to the Veterans Administration website, the purpose of the National Salute to Veteran Patients program includes paying tribute and expressing appreciation to veterans, increasing awareness of the VA medical center and encouraging people to visit hospitalized veterans.

History senior James Wang, battalion executive officer for the Army ROTC, said it’s important to remember and honor wounded veterans and to remember the importance of sacrifice.

“When a country neglects its veterans and neglects the sacrifices they have made in the name of said country, it shows a society in decay,” Wang said. “It shows a society unwilling to recognize the last bastion of tradition left today.”

“So the run, along with being a tradition for the Houston ROTC programs, is a tradition of respect toward those who have served.”

If anyone is interested in donating or volunteering at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, visit the Houston website.

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“ROTC cadets run to support military veterans” was originally posted on The Daily Cougar