Willard “Wid” Bleything ’51, OD ’52, MS ’54 earned three degrees from Pacific University on his way to becoming an optometrist. He served in the Air Force and Air Reserves, retiring as a colonel, and he also worked in private practice for many years before eventually returning to Pacific, where he became the dean of the College of Optometry.
Veterans Stories
Pacific University is proud to share the stories of members of our community who have dedicated a portion of their lives to service in the Uniformed Services of the United States. You can help us honor all veterans in the Pacific family by sharing your story using the online form.
Headlines
The university's Veterans Resource Center, and new scholarships for Pacific student-veterans, were made possible by a World War II veterans who believes strongly in the importance of education.
Recently retired as a colonel in the U.S. Army, Carol Rymer OD '92 will lead clinical programs in the College of Optometry.
Dr. Bernard Brown ’49, OD ’50 has established a scholarship with Pacific’s College of Optometry.
After Bernard Brown '49, OD '50 earned a Purple Heart and his way home from the European Theater in World War II, he pursued a lifelong career in optometry with a degree from Pacific University. Now, he's helping other veterans follow him into the profession.
James “Jim” Silkensen ’67 was chosen to be the grand marshal of the 2018 Memorial Day Parade and Memorial Day Ceremony held in Cranford, N.J.
Alumni & friends rise to the occasion to support Lead On: The Campaign for Tomorrow at Pacific University. Pacific University recently completed its most successful year of giving in school history, with donors contributing gifts and pledges totaling nearly $12.4 million between July 1, 2017, and June 30, 2018.
Mike Duncan PA '16, injured while searching for fellow Army soldier Bowe Bergdahl, tells his tale of forgiveness. Story syndicated nationally.
Marine veteran and Pacific University public health major Irisa Grimes '17 has created a pilot program to provide better health services for transgender veterans.
First-year seminar students paint the spirit bench in honor of veterans.