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Dear Berkeley City College Community,
On Friday, November 11th, we will have the chance to observe Veteran’s Day, referred to as “Armistice
Day” prior to 1971. Earlier today, I had the honor and privilege to offer some remarks at the Veteran’s
Day celebration at Berkeley City College, but most importantly, I had the chance to thank students and
members of the BCC community who have served or are currently serving in one of the 6 branches of the
military. My deepest gratitude to Veteran’s Resource Center Coordinator and Veteran, JeeJun Bertuso, for
organizing an event that was celebratory, inspiring, and challenged our trivia knowledge of Veterans. He
is a proud BCC alumnus who transferred and graduated from UC Berkeley before enlisting in the
military. He knows this community, this journey, and the intersectionality of duty and honor with the
reality of returning to civilian life.
I did not have a calling to serve in the military, but members of my family from uncles, to cousins, to
nephews collectively represent all branches of the military, except for the Space Force. However, I do
have a profound respect for those who have served and the freedoms their services affords me and my
family. I consider their service honorable and my hope is that BCC students who are veterans or from a
military family background feel a sense of belonging at Berkeley City College.
Amidst the trivia and having lunch, I connected with a BCC Veteran, Monique, who shared that she
recently had another veteran and friend die by suicide. It was a stark reminder that the impact and trauma
of war remains, long after a veteran has served. If you or someone you know is in need of support, please
refer them to visit JeeJun Bertuso in the Veteran’s Resource Center or reach out to Janine Greer with the
BCC Mental Health Services.
No matter your opinion on the role of the military in the United States, I hope you are able to pause and
reflect this Friday, November 11 at the 11th hour. Think of our BCC community members, students and
employees alike, who have served in the military in the name of peace and honor. I will think of them and
of my nephew who is currently serving overseas as a member of the Marines.
In Community,
Dr. Angélica Garcia
President