Liberty University recognized military graduates, veterans, and their families during its 14th annual Military Graduate Recognition Ceremony held Thursday at Thomas Road Baptist Church.

Among the faculty participating in the event was Dr. Rich Diddams, dean of Liberty’s School of Business and a former Marine Infantry Officer with more than two decades of service. Diddams joined other faculty members in presenting commemorative coins to graduating military students.

The university reported that of the more than 32,000 students graduating in the Class of 2026, over 8,000 have military connections. That number includes nearly 3,000 military spouses and more than 2,500 active-duty service members. Organizers said this year’s ceremony drew a record attendance, with 785 military graduates and more than 3,700 family members and guests in attendance.

Retired Virginia National Guard Chaplain Maj. Brian Harvey, now assistant director of Liberty’s Center for Chaplaincy, praised the graduates and their families for balancing military responsibilities while pursuing higher education.

“When faced with the demands of military life and education, you chose both,” Harvey said. “That commitment reflects leadership, sacrifice, and a deep sense of purpose.”

The ceremony included a prayer led by Liberty President Dr. Dondi E. Costin and a performance of the national anthem by U.S. Navy veteran and Liberty School of Music professor Dr. Daryl Duff, who also performed the song “A Hero for Today.”

Retired U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Tony Cothron, now an associate professor of government at Liberty, served as the keynote speaker alongside his wife, retired Navy Lt. Cmdr. Elizabeth Cothron. During his remarks, Cothron praised graduates for answering the call to serve their country and encouraged them to continue building their lives on faith and integrity.

“A culture of service creates a stronger and more resilient society,” Cothron said. “At Liberty, you have not only earned a degree but studied through a biblical worldview that will guide your future.”

Graduates representing every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces were recognized during an Armed Forces Medley performed by the 29th Infantry Division Band of the Virginia Army National Guard. A slideshow honoring more than 100 military graduates was also displayed throughout the event.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of commemorative coins symbolizing dedication, perseverance, and continued service to the nation.

Liberty University is also scheduled to host Army and Air Force ROTC commissioning ceremonies on Saturday as part of its larger commencement celebrations. The university’s main commencement ceremony will feature former U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner as keynote speaker.

Liberty has long promoted support programs for military students, veterans, and their families. In 2017, the university became Virginia’s first designated Purple Heart University and continues to offer scholarships and benefits for active-duty personnel, veterans, National Guard members, reservists, Department of Defense employees, and military spouses.