The Veterans Day “Week” of celebrations in honor of the Nation’s Servicemembers began last week at the LA campus of the New York Film Academy College of Visual and Performing Arts (NYFA).
Thanks to a generous donation by the Los Angeles Clippers to NYFA veteran students, approximately 25 students enjoyed an evening of veteran camaraderie and fun, while watching the Clippers defeat the Detroit Pistons by a score of 114-82.
‘Military Mondays’ are held on the first Monday game of every month during the regular season. The games are a small way for the Clippers organization to say ‘thank you’ to the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Services, and to offer appreciation for their sacrifices in serving the country. During the game, they pay recognition to a ‘Hero of the Game’ in which they honor a servicemember on the court and share their story.
NYFA student and U.S. Army veteran, Maurice Roberson had the honor and privilege of singing the National Anthem in front of approximately 19,000 fans on Monday night. Maurice is currently pursuing his Bachelors of Fine Arts in Acting for Film.
The following evening, the Los Angeles Lakers hosted 20 NYFA veteran students for their “Salute to Our Troops” to enjoy the matchup between the LA Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks. At the start of the 2nd quarter the LA Lakers spotlighted the NYFA veterans on the jumbo tron, as the crowd cheered and applauded our veterans for their service.
Retired Army veteran and Photography Department student Vance Pritchett had this to say about the event; “Being at the game surrounded by my fellow veterans and classmates made me feel greatly appreciated. Being publicly recognized for my time in service let me know that the time that I was serving my country away from home is very much appreciated.”
The New York Film Academy is extremely grateful for the opportunity that the Los Angeles Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers have provided to our veteran students. The NYFA Offices of Veteran Services will continue to provide professional and social opportunities to the NYFA veteran students.