Hammontree to Portray Eisenhower at Ashland University Veterans Day Event
ASHLAND, Ohio — Veterans, students and community members are invited to honor America’s military service members during a Veterans Day program featuring local historian and historical reenactor Kenneth Hammontree portraying President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
The Ashland University College Republicans will host the event Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, at 7 p.m. in Ronk Lecture Hall inside the Schar College of Education. The program is being held in conjunction with the In a Soldier’s Shoes Foundation and is open to the public.
“This event will be a wonderful opportunity for veterans, students, and community members to come together to honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our nation,” said John Keim, president of the Ashland University College Republicans.
Hammontree’s portrayal will explore Eisenhower’s military service during World War II and his leadership as the nation’s 34th president, while encouraging attendees to reflect on the courage and sacrifices of American veterans.
Marking 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, Hammontree said his presentation will trace American military service from the battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775 through the present.
“Our veterans from every walk of life had indomitable courage to give to us the freedoms that we have,” Hammontree said in a video invitation with Keim.
His remarks will place special emphasis on the closing words of the Declaration of Independence and its pledge of “our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.” Hammontree connected that pledge to the commitment of generations of veterans who answered the call to defend the United States and its Constitution.
He described the evening as an opportunity to honor veterans, respect their service and express gratitude for their contributions.
Keim extended a personal invitation to veterans throughout Ashland County and surrounding counties. He said local elected officials are also expected to speak during the program.
“Students are welcome, parents are welcome, and veterans are especially welcome,” Keim said.
Keim, a member of Ashland University’s Class of 2028, majors in journalism and communication with a political science minor. He also co-hosts Early Birds Word on 88.9 WRDL.
The event welcomes veterans, university students, faculty, staff and members of the surrounding community.
For additional information, contact Keim at jkeim@ashland.edu.
