June 01, 2020 | Downers Grove, IL

World War II Army veteran Vincent Bednar presents a Midwestern University coin honoring military service to his grandson Brad Powszok, D.O.

As part of a virtual graduation, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine 2020 graduate Brad Powszok, D.O., shared a special memory with his grandfather Vincent Bednar, a World War II Army veteran. Midwestern University presents graduates who have served, are in the military, or are entering the military following graduation with a coin to honor their service to our country. Since the ceremonies were being held virtually, Mr. Bednar was able to present this coin to his grandson, Dr. Powszok who is beginning his medical career as a Lieutenant in the US Navy.

“Graduating from medical school is a milestone that my grandpa has really been looking forward to. He has long talked about the day of seeing me graduate as the first doctor in the family and being able to see me swear in as a Lieutenant in the US Navy,” Dr. Powszok said.  “Luckily, we were still able to fulfill that goal and he was also given the honor of passing on the MWU coin, as a World War II US Army veteran, to me. This tradition signifies another generation of service to our country and many sea stories to come,” he added.

Midwestern University proudly presents graduates from all academic programs who are in the military or entering the military following graduation with a coin to honor their service to our country. During the virtual spring commencements, 61 graduates received a Midwestern University coin honoring their service to our country.