The Penn State Veterans Plaza

The plaza is a gift of the class of 2011 and honors all Penn State Veterans. It features a sculpture of a warrior’s shield, symbolizing honor and sacrifice. The Greek inscription on the curved wall, in reference to the shield, means “With it, or on it,” a phrase spoken by Spartan mothers to their sons before battle. According to ancient tradition, a warrior was never without his shield. He returned home from battle either carrying his shield, or carried upon it by his comrades. The wall is named for Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy, the only Penn State alumnus to receive the Medal of Honor, a distinction given posthumously for his courageous actions in 2005 during the war in Afghanistan.