Dear Students and Colleagues,

The Northeastern community is deeply saddened by the recent loss of Marine Captain Eric Jones, a true son of Northeastern. Eric was killed two weeks ago in the line of duty while stationed in Afghanistan. He graduated from Northeastern in 2004 with a degree in business, and he is a third-generation Husky, following in the footsteps of his father Kenneth, ’70, and grandfather Alton, ’53.

As many of you know, Northeastern has a well-earned reputation for standing behind our men and women in uniform. Our ROTC program is one of the largest in New England — a profound statement about the caliber of student Northeastern attracts. Our support for those engaged in national service is particularly important during a time of war.

Earlier this year, we reaffirmed our support of these brave citizens with the launch of our Yellow Ribbon Program. Through this new partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs, more than 160 veterans each year will receive grants enabling them to attend Northeastern at little or no cost. We see this as an investment not only in the advancement of these individuals, but also as an investment in the collective leadership of our nation.

As we prepare to observe Veterans Day this week, I invite everyone to gather as a university family beside our own Veterans Memorial on Wednesday at 2:30 pm, where together we can remember and honor the generations of Northeastern servicemen and women who have sacrificed for our nation.

Very truly yours,
Joseph E. Aoun