University of Connecticut Athletics
UConn To Honor Soliders At Pittsburgh Football Game
11/9/2006 12:00:00 AM | Football
EAST HARTFORD, Conn. (November 9, 2006) – The University of Connecticut will honor and welcome soldiers from service in Iraq and Afghanistan at Saturday’s Veterans Day football game against the University of Pittsburgh at Rentschler Field.
The salute is part of a national program called Operation Tribute to Freedom (OTF), which recognizes and honors soldiers returning from supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan through speaking and recognition events in communities across the country.
“Welcome Back to School!” recognizes and identifies students, faculty, staff and alumni who have served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom and welcomes them back to school during campus-wide sporting events, recognition ceremonies and other special programs. In 2006, more than 40 colleges and universities will honor Soldiers for their service. For more information, visit .
Four UConn Army ROTC Cadets and Cadre will receive a hero’s welcome home at the football game These soldiers have returned to campus after serving in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom and will be recognized on-field between the first and second quarters in honor of all local veterans.
The four honorees will be:
Cadet Courtney Lawler served in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as a Specialist with the 411th Civil Affairs Battalion of the Army Reserves. Originally from Stratford, Conn., she is a junior, majoring in Urban and Community Studies.
Cadet Ryan McKenna served in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom as a Sergeant with the 82nd Airborne Division. Originally from Manchester, Conn., he is a sophomore, majoring in Urban and Community Studies.
Cadet Michael Russo, Jr. served in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom with the 1st Armored Division. Originally from Fairfield, Conn. he is a sophomore, majoring in psychology with a minor in criminal justice.
Maj. Christine Harvey served in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom with the 50th Signal Battalion. Originally from Earlville, N.Y., she is the Professor of Military Science for the Army ROTC Department.
