Military Memorial

Policy for the Wofford College United States Military Memorial

Purpose

The Wofford College United States Military Memorial was created to preserve the legacy of military service, sacrifice, leadership and commitment demonstrated by Wofford alumni who lost their lives during active-duty military service in the U.S. armed forces.

Eligibility for recognition

  1. Individuals recognized on the memorial must be alumni of Wofford College.
  2. Individuals included on the memorial must have died while serving on active military duty in the United States armed forces.
  3. Eligible branches of service include:
    • United States Air Force
    • United States Army
    • United States Coast Guard
    • United States Marine Corps
    • United States Navy
    • United States Space Force
    • National Guard or Reserve components associated with the above branches
  4. Individuals are not required to have been members of the Southern Guards Battalion or any ROTC program to be eligible for inclusion on the memorial.
  5. Individuals who did not complete a degree but are officially recognized by Wofford College as alumni may be considered eligible in accordance with institutional alumni policies.
  6. Eligibility is contingent upon verification of both alumni status and military service circumstances through official documentation.

Nomination and verification process

  1. Nominations for inclusion on the memorial may be submitted by alumni, family members, faculty, staff, students or members of the community.
  2. All nominations must include sufficient documentation to verify Wofford College alumni status and honorable military service.
  3. Acceptable forms of documentation may include:
    • Military discharge documents (such as DD Form 214)
    • Official military records
    • Obituaries or published biographies
    • Wofford College records
    • Other official documentation deemed appropriate by the review committee

Memorial review committee

The memorial review committee includes a representative from the Office of Philanthropy + Engagement (Alumni Office), the college archivist, a representative from the president’s leadership cabinet and a representative from the U.S. military (alumni, faculty or staff veteran; military science professor; local military professional).

Design and maintenance

  1. The memorial shall be maintained in a respectful and dignified manner consistent with the values and traditions of Wofford College.
  2. Any additions, modifications or relocations of the memorial must be approved by college administration in consultation with the memorial review committee.
  3. The college reserves the right to determine the format, design, placement and physical upkeep of the memorial.

Conduct and use of the memorial space

  1. The memorial and surrounding area shall be treated as a place of honor, remembrance and reflection.
  2. Activities that damage, deface, disrupt or disrespect the memorial are prohibited.
  3. The college may permit commemorative ceremonies, educational events and military observances associated with the memorial.

Amendments

Wofford College reserves the right to amend this policy as needed to ensure the memorial continues to fulfill its purpose and reflects the mission and values of the institution.