November 9–13, 2026 | Florida Gulf Coast University
In recognition of the 250th anniversary of American independence, Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) invites the campus community, military personnel, veterans, military-connected families, and Southwest Florida residents to participate in FGCU Salutes: Service & Sacrifice Week, a weeklong celebration honoring the courage, commitment, and sacrifices of the men and women who have served our nation.
Hosted by FGCU Military and Veterans Success (MVS), this special event extends beyond a traditional Veterans Day observance to recognize the lasting contributions of our military community, strengthen community partnerships, and highlight FGCU’s commitment to supporting those who serve and their families.
Throughout the week, attendees will experience military recognition ceremonies, educational presentations, military vehicle displays, veteran engagement opportunities, community partnerships, and interactive exhibits highlighting military history, service, and sacrifice.
Event Highlights Include:
- Monday, November 9 – Military Heritage & Leadership: Opening activities, military vehicle displays, distinguished military speakers, and educational presentations recognizing military service and leadership.
- Tuesday, November 10 – Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony: A major campus commemoration honoring veterans and service members, featuring military honors, a ceremonial 13 Folds and Missing Man tribute, bagpipe music, community leaders, and special recognition of military service.
- Wednesday, November 11 – Honoring Our Veterans: Continued campus recognition and opportunities to celebrate the contributions of veterans, including an FGCU women’s basketball game at Alico Arena.
- Thursday, November 12 – Military & Veteran Resource Expo: An interactive expo highlighting military branches, veteran-serving organizations, educational opportunities, resources, and hands-on experiences, with a special focus on the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.
- Friday, November 13 – Service, Leadership & Legacy: Closing activities celebrating military-connected leaders, recognizing service and sacrifice, and strengthening relationships between FGCU and the Southwest Florida military community.
As part of FGCU’s commitment to honoring those who have served, the week will also highlight the university’s Purple Heart University designation and its ongoing efforts to provide meaningful support, resources, and opportunities for veterans, active-duty service members, ROTC cadets, and military-connected students and families.
Our mission is simple: to honor those who served, recognize those who continue to serve, and build a stronger future for the military-connected community.
FGCU Salutes is more than a week of events. It is a commitment to ensuring that service, sacrifice, leadership, and patriotism remain an enduring part of our university and our community.
