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Wolfpack Warriors: Honoring NC State’s Military Community

NC State’s military tradition connects generations of students, alumni and families. Watch Nick Drake, director of Jeffrey Wright Military and Veteran Services, and NC State Athletics leaders Stephanie Menio and Justin Lisk explore the stories behind the Wolfpack Warriors football uniform, the experiences of military-connected students and the partnerships that bring military appreciation events to life.

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Highlights from the Discussion

  1. A Legacy of Service That Continues Today. NC State’s military connections reach back to the university’s earliest years and continue through ROTC, research partnerships and generations of alumni who have served. The Memorial Belltower remains a lasting reminder of that history and the sacrifices behind a familiar Wolfpack landmark.
  2. A Uniform That Tells a Larger Story. The Wolfpack Warriors football uniform brings NC State’s military heritage onto the field. Its crossed swords draw inspiration from the Memorial Belltower, seven stars recognize North Carolina’s major military installations, and the phrase “Starve Alone, Feast Together,” inspired by Air Force ROTC, emphasizes teamwork.
  3. Preparing the Next Generation of Military Leaders. NC State’s ROTC cadets and midshipmen balance their academic programs and campus lives with physical training, leadership labs and field exercises. Through Army, Air Force and Navy/Marine Corps ROTC, students develop the judgment, accountability and time-management skills that prepare them to lead after graduation.
  4. A Community of Support for Military-Connected Students. Jeffrey Wright Military and Veteran Services supports about 3,500 military-connected students, including veterans, current service members and their spouses and children. Transition support, campus resources, community building and career preparation help students find a sense of belonging and succeed through graduation.
  5. Military Appreciation Takes a Team. Athletics, Military and Veteran Services, ROTC units and community partners plan for months to create meaningful recognition. From the Walk of Champions and honoring veterans to the field-size American flag at halftime, Military Appreciation Day brings the Wolfpack together to recognize service and show military-connected students, families and community members that they belong.

Support the Jeffrey Wright Military and Veteran Services Fund.

As you consider ways to give back to the university, please consider supporting the Jeffrey Wright Military and Veteran Services Fund. Your gift will help us create extraordinary learning experiences and opportunities for our students.

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