Veterans Day Tribute at Mat-Su College

The best part of a Veterans Day event is the powerful and heartfelt connection between the public and the veterans themselves. Whether it's the roar of applause as a marching unit passes during a parade or a quiet handshake and sincere "thank you" at a local ceremony, these moments allow communities to directly express their gratitude for the courage and sacrifice of those who have served.

Each year, the Matanuska-Susitna College Veterans Day Tribute strives to honor those brave soldiers who have served in the United States Military. This year will be no different, but it will highlight a very impactful local veteran and the work he has done to help so many of his comrades-in-arms.

Senior Master Sergeant (Ret.) Tom Spangler served the country in the U.S. Air Force for 28 years. Then, he spent the next decade and a half working as an Academic Advisor at Mat-Su College. His unique life experience and unwavering dedication to his fellow soldiers made him perfectly positioned to build a bridge for veterans looking for their next chapter.

An unfortunate reality of military service is the challenge of coming all the way home after a military career. Returning veterans face issues including PTSD, depression, physical health challenges, and financial instability. Spangler says, "These unique experiences cannot be easily understood, which is why the bond among veterans is so meaningful. It is a deep connection that brings us together, enabling us to feel heard, supported, and understood. Those connections have helped me through some very tough times. Military friendships are unlike any others."

Spangler retired a second time last year, making this the first opportunity for the Mat-Su Campus to honor his impact on veterans—both on and off campus. It would be safe to say that during his time with the college, he was able to meet with hundreds of veterans in need of his focused support to help with their transition to civilian life. Darla Haddeland, a financial aid advisor at the campus, shares, "He is always defined by his collaborative spirit and unwavering dedication to excellence. He was an invaluable member of the team, consistently showing an unwavering dedication to his students that was truly inspiring."

The Mat-Su College Veterans Day tribute will be held on Tuesday, November 11th, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Glenn Massay Theater on the college campus. This event is free, open to the public, and will also feature Colony High JROTC, a special guest presentation, a POW/MIA Ceremony, and a live performance of TAPS.

Mat-Su College would like to share a special invitation to those valley veterans who know firsthand the impact and dedication of Senior Master Sergeant (Ret.) Tom Spangler.