BATESVILLE, Arkansas — Lyon College will recognize and honor those who serve and protect during its Military and First Responders Appreciation Day at its football game against Texas Lutheran University on Saturday, Nov. 8, at Bad Boy Mowers Stadium on the Lyon College campus, 2300 Highland Rd., Batesville.

All veterans, current members of the military and first responders will receive free gate admission to the Scots football game as a gesture of gratitude for their service and sacrifice. The Scots will take on the Bulldogs with kickoff set for 1 p.m.

The day will begin with a Chair of Honor dedication ceremony at 11:30 a.m., honoring American service members who are prisoners of war or missing in action (POW/MIA). The ceremony will take place inside the stadium and will include remarks, reflections and the unveiling of a commemorative chair that will remain permanently empty in remembrance of those who have not returned home.

During the ceremony, Lyon College public address announcer Ronald Richardson will guide attendees through the dedication, including a solemn tribute that highlights the ongoing search for more than 81,500 unaccounted-for Americans.

The ceremony will conclude with the unveiling of the chair, featuring the official POW/MIA symbol and accompanied by a plaque explaining its meaning. Lyon College Pipe Band Major Jimmy Bell and Kenton Adler will perform "Amazing Grace" to close the ceremony, followed by a prayer of reflection led by Lyon College Chaplain Maggie Alsup.

A hospitality tent will be open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. inside the stadium for all veterans, current military, first responders and their family members to enjoy refreshments and fellowship before the game.

"This day is an opportunity for the Lyon community to express our deepest gratitude to the men and women who have served our nation and our local communities," said Lyon College Director of Athletics Kevin Jenkins. "We hope everyone will join us in honoring their courage, sacrifice, and commitment."

For more information about Military and First Responders Appreciation Day, please contact Pam Palermo, senior director of conferences and events, at Pamela.Palermo@Lyon.edu.  
About Lyon College
Lyon College, a private, liberal arts institution founded in 1872, is the oldest college in the state with its original charter. Ranked by US News & World Report as a 2024 "Best College," Lyon currently enrolls 781 students from more than 33 states and 14 countries. Students can tailor their education, selecting from 32 majors, as well as pre-professional, individualized options and select graduate programs. Learn more at lyon.edu.