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On Sept. 11, because of events occurring hundreds of miles away and decisions made half way around the world, everything changed. Immediately, students and staff at the University of Maine felt the need to make a connection with the suffering of the nation, to break out of the shelter of academia and our remote location and help. We wanted to be part of something bigger than ourselves and to do what we could. Some gave blood, others gave money and now, quietly, some are leaving our community to give their talents and themselves.
Wednesday afternoon, Joe Mollo, director of Campus Activities and Events, walked into The Maine Campus office to tell us that he was leaving. He is a Navy reservist and was called to participate in Operation Enduring Freedom. For now, his orders are for one year of active service. That could be extended to two years, should his services be needed.
This is happening all around the country and is coming home to our campus. While we see ROTC cadets walk around UMaine in their uniforms, alumni of the program and this school, our friends and our neighbors are headed to Afghanistan and other bases at home and abroad. Students and faculty who, unknown to many of us, are involved in some way with the military are being called one by one to defend a country still trying to understand the concept of terrorism and the “new war” against it.
Mollo is just one visible example of something many of us never thought we would see-those close to us going to war. To all the men and women from UMaine, the United States and around the world who are helping in this fight to end terrorism, we applaud your courage and wish you luck. You will remain our hearts and in our minds until your return.
