The Chez Veterans Center proudly hosted its annual Veterans Day Celebration, honoring the courage, resilience, and sacrifice of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This year’s program brought together students, staff, and community members to reflect on the continued impact of military-connected individuals within the University of Illinois and beyond.
The event featured Major General (Ret.) James H. Mukoyama, Jr., a distinguished University of Illinois alumnus and decorated combat Veteran whose service to our nation spans more than three decades. Major General Mukoyama’s military career included combat tours in Korea and Vietnam, earning him numerous awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, three Bronze Stars, and the Purple Heart.
Since retiring in 1995, Major General Mukoyama has remained steadfast in his dedication to supporting Veterans and military families through national leadership and community service. His organization, Military Outreach USA, founded in 2016, addresses the unique challenges of moral injury—a deeply personal struggle that can result when actions in combat or military service conflict with an individual’s moral code.
In his remarks, Major General Mukoyama spoke with humility and conviction about his lifelong faith, family, and love for country.
“Every day is a great day. I have my faith, my family, and I live in the finest country in the world,” he shared.
He reflected on the progress our nation has made, noting that the United States remains a country that recognizes its mistakes and strives to take corrective action—a country with the oldest still-existing constitution and a spirit of exceptionalism grounded in liberty, opportunity, and trust in God.
Drawing from his personal experiences in combat, Major General Mukoyama also addressed the lasting effects of military service on mental health, including suicidality, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, military sexual trauma, and moral injury. He emphasized the importance of seeking help and supporting one another through connection, community, and faith.
“You bury it, but eventually it bubbles up to the surface,” he said, describing how moral injury requires strong coping and supportive networks.
“Help is available,” he reminded attendees, urging Veterans to access the resources designed for their healing and well-being.
Major General Mukoyama’s story of resilience and redemption underscored the enduring strength of the military community, a strength that continues through generations. From his own service to the younger generations following in his footsteps, his message of unity, gratitude, and purpose resonated deeply with all in attendance.
The Veterans Day Celebration at the Chez Veterans Center serves as a heartfelt reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve and of the bonds that connect generations of service members and their families. Together, we honor their courage, their stories, and their continued contributions to our community and nation.
