Ferris State University will host its annual Veterans Day Breakfast on Friday, Nov. 10, at 8 a.m. in the David L. Eisler Center ballroom in an event open to campus and local veterans.

The Veterans Day Breakfast, sponsored by the Ferris State President’s Office, features a presentation of the colors, the singing of the National Anthem, and remarks from John Van Etten, who graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Aeronautics.

Van Etten married his love for innovation to his childhood dream of flight. He joined the U.S. Air Force, where he piloted the OV-10 Bronco—an aircraft known for its crucial role during the Vietnam War for reconnaissance and light attack missions.

Following his active-duty separation, Van Etten became a member of the Air National Guard. He flew the F-100 Super Saber, a testament to his advanced flying abilities and dedication to service. During his time with the Air National Guard, Van Etten’s career took a parallel path as he became a corporate pilot.

After completing two successful decades as a business leader, Van Etten retired, choosing Mid-Michigan as his home.

The Reserve Officers Training Corps members will present an honor guard and flag ceremony.

Veterans run Ferris State’s Veteran Resource Center for Veterans. The office is a centralized location available to all veterans – active duty, reserve guard, separated, retired and their dependents. 

Ferris State’s commitment to supporting students from military service backgrounds was recognized by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, which presented the university with gold-level status.

Ferris State is among 62 universities, colleges, and trade schools to earn Veteran-Friendly Schools recognition for the 2023-24 academic year.

For more information about the Veterans Day Breakfast, can contact the Veterans Resource Center at (231) 591-2022 or by email at Veterans@Ferris.edu.