DBU Report Winter 2020-2021 - Page 26

DBU REPORT 26 VETERANS DAY “A LIFE OF SERVICE” LUNCHEON To celebrate Veterans Day on November 11, 2020, hundreds of hand-held American flags were lined along the DBU lawn and sidewalks by Student Government Organizations and the Student Activities Board to honor all those who have served our nation and protected its freedoms. Even in the midst of the chaos of 2020, DBU remained true to their annual commitment to host a group of Veterans on campus. This year, DBU hosted its first-ever “A Life of Service” luncheon amidst a small in-person gathering in Sadler Hall, which was also extended virtually to welcome many more friends and guests. During his opening remarks, DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright stated, “We take seriously God and Country here at DBU, and we make no apology about it.” DBU was also honored to hear from Lieutenant Trevor Carpenter, Pastor Devinion B. Valentine, and Dr. Levi Price throughout the duration of the program, each passionately articulating what it means to live “A Life of Service.” Pastor Valentine served in the U.S. Military for four years. He is currently the Lead Pastor for Omni Fellowship in Cedar Hill. Pastor Valentine explained that a life of service begins by “living a life worthy of the calling which you have received,” as stated in Ephesians 4. He reminded the veterans present of our calling as Christians to be humble, gentle, patient, to bear with one another, and to do it all in love. Lieutenant Trevor Carpenter, a DBU alumnus, joined virtually from Oahu, Hawaii. Lieutenant Carpenter served in the U.S. Navy as a Chaplain and currently serves as Command Chaplain for Combat Logistics Battalion for the 3rd Marines. He received the Navy and Marine Achievement Medal and Navy Commendation Medal. Lieutenant Carpenter has also worked in the outdoor education field and served on multiple church staffs in New Mexico and Texas. Lieutenant Carpenter shared reflections on the importance of heeding godly advice, exercising strong discipline, and honoring the legacy of men like Dr. Levi Price. Dr. Levi Price served in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam from 1966-1967, reached the rank of Captain, and received a battlefield commendation. Dr. Price’s life was changed after hearing these words from a Chaplain while in Vietnam: “Levi,” he said, “the one thing in life a man’s got to do is commit his life to Jesus Christ.” Dr. Price has become a distinguished minister, spreading the love of God through his various missionary and pastoral positions, as well as serving as a denominational leader and professor. Dallas Baptist University is grateful beyond measure for the brave men and women who have served in the past, are currently serving, and have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. DBU is active in supporting our veterans through our Military and Veteran Service Center. The University has repeatedly been recognized as a top “Military-Friendly School” in the nation. Pastor Devinion B. Valentine, Dr. Levi Price, and DBU Chancellor Dr. Gary Cook