Troy University pays tribute to veterans lost to suicide with flags on the quad

Signs and flags decorate the quad to honor veterans. Dawson Parks photo

Army and Air Force ROTC cadets gathered to place 150 flags on the quad last Tuesday morning. This was part of a collaboration with Alabama Veterans Affairs for Operation We Remember, which aims to bring awareness to veteran suicide in the state of Alabama.

“It’s our hope that people will see this display of flags and know that they are remembered – that people have put forth the care to make sure people are known and remembered,” said Director of Military and Veterans Affairs at Troy University Scot Brumbeloe.

Troy University has been doing their part in Operation We Remember – Alabama’s annual awareness campaign which looks to honor veterans who have died by suicide – since the campaign was established in 2022.

Ever since then, Army and Air Force ROTC have placed flags on the quad to correspond with veteran deaths to suicide. The number of flags placed is to remember the 150 veterans who committed suicide in Alabama in 2025, a number that increases every year.

Army ROTC Trojan Company Commander Davis Menefee explained this is exactly why it’s important to make people aware and let them know of resources they have access to.

“I think that mental health, especially within veterans, is [overlooked],” Menefee said. “It’s important to realize what’s actually happening behind the scenes.”

Wing Commander for the Air Force ROTC Chase Lunsford further explained that the event looks to avoid forgetting the sacrifices these veterans made.

“The worst thing that we can do is forget the battles that they fight, not only overseas but also in their own minds,” Lunsford said. “By coming out here, we’re remembering them, we’re remembering their legacy.”

Veterans in an emergency mental health situation are encouraged to call or text 988.

Veterans on campus have a variety of resources if they’re struggling with mental health. This includes the Troy for Troops office, which can offer counseling and other options.

Vet centers are also available, which offer confidential help for veterans. The nearest vet center to Troy’s campus is located in Montgomery, Alabama.