Cretin-Derham Hall Honors Veterans with Community Assembly
Megan Smith, Alumni Relations
November 11, 2025
In recognition of Veterans Day on November 11, Cretin-Derham Hall (CDH) joined the CDH Alumni Board and the JROTC program to host a special assembly in the Joe Mauer Field House. The event brought together the CDH community - including students, faculty, staff, alumni, veterans, and members of the Raider Brigade - to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The assembly was hosted by the CDH Raider Brigade and the CDH Alumni Association, with Scott Anderson ’84, Past President of the Alumni Board, offering a warm welcome to guests. Speakers included Colonel (Ret.) Joe Scrocca, JROTC Senior Army Instructor; Cadet Colonel Bridget Bower ’26, Raider Brigade Commander; and Cadets Olivia Tharp '26 and Kaylee Perla '26. The CDH Band led the community in the Star-Spangled Banner during the presentation of the American flag. The Color Guard included the following cadets: Colin Burns '29, Anne Cavanaugh '27, Jake Mauer '29, Evelyn McKiel '27.
CDH President Jeb Myers reflected on the meaning of Veterans Day, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and remembrance.
Cadet Colonel Bridget Bower ’26 expressed her appreciation for veterans, saying,
“I am proud to have grown up with veterans around me. My Granddad served in the Air Force and my neighbor served in the Army. Seek out a veteran today and thank them for their service. Make a phone call to a friend or relative, or be empowered to talk to someone today.”
Colonel (Ret.) Joe Scrocca also highlighted the ongoing contributions of veterans, noting,
“Right now, all around the country, veterans serve as teachers, doctors, engineers, social workers, community leaders, first responders, and even elected officials. They continue to serve our country by making positive impacts in their communities and inspiring future generations to come.”
He concluded by reminding the community that the legacy of service continues through today’s men and women in uniform:
“Our current service members carry on the proud legacy and traditions of all our nation’s veterans who have, throughout our history, kept us free. Today, we say thanks to them all.”
The assembly served as a heartfelt tribute to the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of all who have served, and a reminder of the enduring values that unite the CDH community.