On the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington, the presence of anti-aircraft guns and parts of the USS Indiana, including its mast, stands as a tribute. This display honors the men and women from Indiana who have served in the U.S. armed forces.
As Indiana University hosts major sporting events, such as the Big Ten football clash between No. 5 Indiana and No. 4 Ohio State, the connection between campus sports and the military becomes clear. The military’s significance is acknowledged daily at Indiana University, with a strong presence felt throughout the campus.
Indiana senior Vasiliios Koultourides, a member of the Indiana National Guard, notes, “IU definitely has an upper echelon of military history, and they do really treat their military personnel with a lot of respect.”
An essential part of Indiana University’s military recognition is not only the relics displayed outside the football stadium but also the documentation of military service by those connected to the university. This is exemplified by the Golden Book, housed in the Memorial Student Union. Dating back to 1898, this 152-page registry records the military service of those affiliated with Indiana University.
The Golden Book includes names from conflicts such as the War of 1812, the Civil War, World War I, and World War II, among others. As of 2016, a digital version of the Golden Book has been available, listing over 25,000 names.
Indiana student Zainab Diouf, also with the Indiana National Guard, shares, “I just think it’s the coolest thing ever, and I think it’s so unique.”
Koultourides recalls his initial encounter with the Golden Book during a campus tour in high school. “It’s amazing to see how they’ve kept such in-depth records about these people’s lives and service,” he says.
Indiana University doesn’t merely preserve history; it actively supports its military community today. The school’s Center for Veterans and Military Students provides essential assistance, from benefits to career guidance. “The Center is awesome,” Koultourides adds, emphasizing the community support it fosters.
On the athletic front, Indiana’s sports teams conduct “Salute to Service” games, integrating military students and veterans into athletic events. Military students partake in pushups following football touchdowns and even fire off a cannon.
This culture of appreciation is acknowledged by Koultourides, who states, “It shows how thankful they are for what we do for the community and for everyone who serves.”
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