“Because of the brave” is a poignant Memorial Day message honoring veterans and active military members that, this year, University of Phoenix took to a grand scale. In May 2022, ahead of the National Day of Remembrance, dedicated volunteers planted a field of U.S. flags at the University that spelled out “because of the brave” in letters so large they were viewable from the sky.
Always Remember: The Importance of Memorial Day
Memorial Day, which this year was observed on Sunday, May 29, is an annual holiday that is a tribute to U.S. military personnel who died in the line of duty. It’s also an opportunity to acknowledge the commitment made by members of the military in active service.
In 2021, University of Phoenix brought back the annual Memorial Day tradition of planting flags on the campus lawn after a year’s hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Then, volunteers used the flags to create another important message: “always remember.” In addition to the impressive display, the University added a traveling memorial to honor each veteran killed in service since 9/11.
Christine Martinez, a retired Navy senior chief and a volunteer involved in this year’s project, said that it is important to acknowledge the day, as this means remembering the many who have given their lives in service to the nation so that others can live theirs in safety. She emphasized that the impact of a service member’s passing is not limited to one person, as they leave behind family and friends who must continue their lives without their loved one. Martinez added that every individual’s death means their wider community “also paid that price.”
Because of the Brave: Honoring Military Members’ Sacrifices
Charnessia Cooper was another of many proud volunteers planting thousands of flags at the University this year. She explained that being part of the project was a must for her, citing her grandfather, husband and daughter, all army veterans, as her inspiration. As a mark of respect and thanks for the sacrifices made by her family and countless others, Cooper has vowed to represent “those who have gone on.”
The spectacular message, “because of the brave,” stood on display at the University’s campus in Phoenix for several days. On Friday, May 27, a nonprofit in the Phoenix area, Arizona Heroes to Hometowns, collected the 10,000 flags and distributed them to military cemeteries ahead of Memorial Day.
Post-Service Education for Military Personnel
University of Phoenix believes that education can help those transitioning out of military service; a belief shared by 87 percent of military members who consider learning new skills necessary for adapting to civilian life and workforce culture. Studies show that 89 percent of military members have an interest in continuing their education. When polled, many showed a desire for the following resources:
- 51 percent of military personnel said job search skills would be helpful
- 49 percent mentioned professional development skills
- 47 percent mentioned computer skills
- 44 percent mentioned career help and advice
- 41 percent thought that a veteran-friendly job database would be a valuable resource
Continued education plays a critical role in military members finding success in their ideal jobs. Extra education can help translate transferable skills learned during service into a civilian context or can fill in any gaps from a military career. Unfortunately, 39 percent of military members cite a lack of time as a challenge preventing them from continuing their education. Thirty-three percent cited family situations as a barrier to entry, and 31 percent said that not knowing where to start was another.
How University of Phoenix Supports Military Students
Thanks to resources and support from University of Phoenix, the journey from service to student can be smooth, enjoyable and suited to each individual. Serving the educational goals of military students including service members, veterans, military spouses and dependents means providing affordable, career-focused programs and flexible support, allowing students to make their studies work around their military duties.
Military students can use their military benefits to help pay for their education, and University of Phoenix waives resource fees for qualifying service member undergraduates to help reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs.
The University also offers students the opportunity to earn college credit for military service, including military training and national testing programs, that can help individuals complete their undergraduate degrees faster. Each branch of the military services (Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard) has its own approach to documenting military training for the American Council on Education (ACE) to evaluate for college credit, and students may be able to apply this to their degree program at the University.
About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix is dedicated to advancing the educational goals of its adult and nontraditional learners and to helping students manage the career options and degree programs that best suit their needs and aspirations. The University’s degree programs align with multiple popular career paths including roles in the nursing, business and cybersecurity industries.
By offering flexible start dates, online classes and numerous scholarship options, University of Phoenix makes it possible for anyone to earn their ideal degree. For no additional charge, the University’s Career Services for Life® provides active students and graduates with the resources they need to thrive in the workforce including career guidance, resume and interview support, and education and networking opportunities. For more information, visit www.phoenix.edu.