University of Mary Hosts Annual Veterans Day Chapel Service and Luncheon Honoring North Dakota’s Heroes

Complimentary lunch provided afterward to all active duty and retired military

BISMARCK, N.D. - The University of Mary is proud to honor those who serve America by inviting all current and former military members, veterans, and their families to the university's annual Veterans Day Chapel Service and complimentary luncheon. This year's observance takes place Tuesday, November 11, at 11 a.m. in Founders Hall at the Lumen Vitae University Center (LVUC) on the University of Mary campus.

The hour-long ceremony-open to the public and media-features music, prayer, and a keynote address by Sergeant First Class Pete Dobitz, a decorated veteran of the North Dakota National Guard. Born in Dickinson and raised in New England, ND, Dobitz served more than 20 years before retiring in 2008. During his military career, he served as a combat engineer, medical specialist, heavy equipment operator, and "Trailblazer" road clearance operator in Iraq.

Dobitz deployed to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom from December 2003 to April 2005 and later worked on border improvement efforts in Arizona. He also participated in a humanitarian mission to the Dominican Republic, rebuilding schools and hospitals damaged by a hurricane. His honors include the Bronze Star Medal for valor, the Army Commendation Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal, among others.

"Service takes many forms," Dobitz said. "Whether it's in the military, the classroom, or your community, it's about giving of yourself for something greater. That's what makes Veterans Day so meaningful. The relationships and camaraderie we share as soldiers are what stay with you long after the missions are over. I'm grateful for the opportunity to honor the men and women who continue to serve with courage and humility."

Today, Dobitz teaches chemistry and anatomy at Dickinson High School, where he is completing his 32nd year in education and 25th year as head baseball coach, leading his teams to multiple state championships.

Following the service, honorees will be guided along a short parade route to the Crow's Nest Campus Restaurant, proudly sponsored by Steve and Eileen Scheel, where they will be welcomed to a complimentary lunch in gratitude for their service.

The University of Mary is deeply honored to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and service of America's veterans and active-duty military. Complimentary lunch is provided to all veterans and service members in attendance.

Anyone who wishes to learn more about the University of Mary can do so at https://www.umary.edu or online.umary.edu, or by contacting an admissions representative at [email protected], or by calling (701) 355-8030. The University of Mary is one of only 20 recommended Cardinal Newman Society Residential Colleges and Universities in the US.

About the University of Mary: True to its motto "lumen vitae"-The Light of Life-the University of Mary offers education for the whole of life through cutting-edge professional programs and graduate programs animated by moral courage and leadership in chosen professions and service to the community. A private, co-educational Catholic institution, the University of Mary welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds.

A Christian, Catholic, Benedictine institution founded in 1959 by the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Mary offers nearly 60 bachelor's, 15 master's, and five doctoral programs-in Business Administration, Education, Nursing Practice, Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy. The 20-sport Athletic Department adheres to its Greatness Through Virtue mission under the governance of 18 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) sanctioned sports, one men's hockey team that is a member of the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA), and a co-ed clay shooting team that competes in the USA College Clay Target League. With more than 3,900 students, Mary has locations in North Dakota, Montana, Arizona, Rome, Italy, as well as vibrant online offerings.