AUGUSTA — The sign outside the University of Maine at Augusta says “Welcome Vets,” and that strikes Jason Coombs as a good thing.

“That’s huge. They don’t wait to tell you that when you get up to campus. It’s right there.”

Nathaniel Grace, center, sings the national anthem while flanked by Kennebec County Veterans Honor Guard members Fred Line, left, and Normand Bernier during a veterans’ event Tuesday in the Randall Center at the University of Maine at Augusta.
Nathaniel Grace, center, sings the national anthem while flanked by Kennebec County Veterans Honor Guard members Fred Line, left, and Normand Bernier during a veterans’ event Tuesday in the Randall Center at the University of Maine at Augusta. Staff photo by Joe Phelan
A Marine, Jason Coombs served during the 1991 Persian Gulf War.
A Marine, Jason Coombs served during the 1991 Persian Gulf War.
Maine first lady Ann LePage speaks during a veterans’ event Tuesday in the Randall Center at the University of Maine at Augusta.
Maine first lady Ann LePage speaks during a veterans’ event Tuesday in the Randall Center at the University of Maine at Augusta. Staff photo by Joe Phelan
Adria Horn, director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, speaks during Tuesday's event at the University of Maine at Augusta.
Adria Horn, director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, speaks during Tuesday's event at the University of Maine at Augusta. Staff photo by Joe Phelan

Coombs was one of several dozen people gathered Tuesday evening in the Randall Student Center at UMA for its 50th Anniversary Veteran Recognition event.

A former Marine, Coombs served during the 1991 Persian Gulf War.

He has found a community of veterans as he pursues a bachelor’s degree in public administration with minors in photography, and genocide and Holocaust studies.

Sometimes it takes only a look to identify the students who have served in the military, and that’s enough to spark communication. “Our conversations are deeper and more open than they would be with nonveterans,” Coombs said.

Even as UMA honored the service of veterans Tuesday, it is being honored by a slew of military publications that have recognized it for its service to veterans. G.I. Jobs Magazine, Military Times and the 2016 Military Advanced Education & Transition Guide to Colleges and Universities have listed UMA as military-friendly, best for veterans and a top school.

“The university understands the needs of veterans,” Coombs said, including those who may carry injuries beyond their service into civilian life.

Roger Line, who earned his UMA bachelor’s degree in applied science online while still in the Navy, added, “The services offered at UMA are second to none.”

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