ASU honors veterans, public servants with annual Salute to Service celebration


Silhouettes of service members raising their arms in the sky in front of a sunset

Photo by ASU

Arizona State University will hold its annual Salute to Service celebration from Nov. 7–17 across all Phoenix metro campuses, honoring those who have served the nation and their communities — whether through military service, public safety, health care or other public service.

As a leading national service university, ASU recognizes and celebrates the contributions of individuals across these fields, embodying the institution’s commitment to supporting those who serve.

Throughout the 10-day celebration, ASU units will host numerous events, including the Salute to Service football game — an annual highlight — as well as a health expo, impactful panel discussions, a World War II play, displays and more.

Highlights from the event schedule

Find the full list of events on the Salute to Service website.

Nov. 6

Salute to Service Joint ROTC Run
5:30–7 a.m.
Old Main, Tempe campus

Cadets from ASU’s Army, Navy and Air Force ROTC units will kick off Salute to Service with a joint three-mile run starting at Old Main and finishing at Mountain America Stadium. 

Nov. 7

Wellness Warrior Health Expo
11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Courtyard between Health North and South (500 N. Third St.), Downtown Phoenix campus 

Hosted by the College of Health Solutions, this event features veteran health resources, demonstration of services, showcasing work related to health and wellness. 

Air Force Helicopter Display
Time TBA
Sun Devil Fitness Center field, Tempe campus

An Air Force helicopter will land on the fields in front of the Sun Devil Fitness Center in the morning. The helicopter will be on display for visitors to check out and speak with the crew.  

Nov. 8

Panel Discussion with Arizona Military Leaders
Noon–2:15 p.m.
Old Main's Carson Ballroom, Tempe campus

Senior officers from Arizona military installations will discuss the implications of today’s technology, how military services are adapting and how that may impact the United States. Senior enlisted leaders will discuss what it means to serve in times of difficulty and uncertainty. This event will also be streamed live at news.asu.edu/asulive.

Nov. 9

Salute to Service Football Game: ASU vs. University of Central Florida
Time TBA
Mountain America Stadium, Tempe campus

This event will feature military-themed activities, music, food and other entertainment on College Avenue before the game.

21st annual Veterans Day Weekend Traditional Pow Wow at the Native American Heritage Festival
11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Fletcher Lawn, West Valley campus

Celebrate Native American culture and honor veterans with a day of sacred drumming, dancing and singing. Plus, enjoy handmade crafts and traditional foods.

Nov. 13

East Valley Veterans Exhibit
5–7 p.m.
Chandler Innovation Center, 249 E. Chicago St.

Join event organizers for a special tribute honoring the veterans featured in “Querencia: Place and Belonging.” The exhibit celebrates the rich oral histories of Latinos in Chandler, highlighting their deep connection to place and identity. This event plays homage to the military service of those who are not only part of Chandler’s vibrant Latino community but also veterans.

Nov. 15–16

'From Tidworth with Love'
7–9 p.m. Nov. 15; 6–8 p.m. Nov. 16
Aravaipa Auditorium, Polytechnic campus

The College of Integrative Sciences and Arts' Office for Veteran and Military Academic Engagement presents a heartfelt and poignant World War II play based on the true story of Bill Barker, a soldier in basic training, and Mary Giambrone, a nursing student. Cost is $15 for general admission, $5 for students.

Nov. 16

Merging Vets and Players Community Workout
9 a.m.–noon
Mountain America Stadium, Tempe campus

MVP (Merging Vets and Players) brings together professional athletes and military veterans to thrive through fitness, health and wellness programs.

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