Our Honor Defend
Three words born from a battle cry for those who inspire us through their commitment to excellence. At Ohio State, we believe every person has the opportunity to act with character and integrity every day.
Ohio State, the nation’s leading university serving all military-connected students, takes pride in sharing the Our Honor Defend military appreciation program inspired by the sense of duty, loyalty, and courage of those who rise to the challenge and persevere to the end.
Join Buckeye Nation in showing pride to recognize all veterans and service personnel who have served, are serving, or will serve our country and their steadfast defense of honor.
Proceeds from Our Honor Defend officially licensed products support Ohio State Veterans, ROTC, and other military-connected student scholarships.
"Our connection with Ohio State Athletics and the Our Honor Defend program has energized and elevated the Buckeye Military Community—especially our student veterans, ROTC Cadets/ Midshipmen, National Guard and Reserves.The Our Honor Defend apparel not only delivers exceptional quality but also embodies the military’s core values and warrior ethos, making it a source of both pride and purpose.”
– Kevin P. Cullen, Colonel, US Air Force (Retired), Assistant Vice Provost & Director, Military & Veterans Services at The Ohio State University
"Our Honor Defend is not a phrase we take lightly. We often correlate the fight song line to our athletics pursuits, but the greater impact the statement has is to our military community and the Buckeyes who have made the commitment to serve and protect. We will continue to honor the Buckeyes in the military community. Any opportunity our men have to give thanks to those who have and continue to serve and protect this great nation is very impactful.”
– Nick Myers, Head Men’s Lacrosse Coach
Coach Paulicivic's Story
Head Women’s Gymnastics coach
Women's Gymnastics Coach Meredith Paulicivic was born into a military family and has been connected to the military her whole life. Her father was a Marine colonel and a Vietnam veteran who served for 28 years, gladly and proudly. She grew up all over the country, including Virginia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Hawaii, and California. She also lived in Okinawa, Japan.
Brooke Shield's Story
Former Ohio State Cheerleader
I was born into a military family and have been connected to the military my whole life! My father was a marine Colonel and a Vietnam veteran who served for 28 years gladly and proudly. I grew up all over the country including Virginia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Hawaii and California. We also lived in Okinawa, Japan for a year.
Kate Reymann's Story
Director, Student-athlete development – Dept. of Athletics
Both of my parents served in the Air Force. In addition to my parents, I have had many additional family members serve including both of my grandfathers as well as 3 of my uncles. I am proud to have so many family members who served our country.
Kyle Pulvermacher's Story
Assistant Sport Scientist – Dept. of Athletics
In my immediate family, 5 out of the 6 of us have served or are serving in the Army, collectively contributing over 80 years of service. My dad, a Brigadier General; my mom, a Sergeant; my brothers—a Major and a Captain; and myself, a First Lieutenant—have all experienced the demands of military life. Between us, we have completed numerous deployments, which have brought both challenges and a deep sense of purpose to our lives.
Mike Fullen's Story
Director, Financial Planning & Analysis – Dept. of Athletics
Mike’s decision to join the military stemmed from his early ambition to become a police officer, and serving as a Military Police officer at just 18 allowed him to pursue that calling while gaining invaluable life experience. His time in service—marked by deployments to Afghanistan and Cuba following September 11th—shaped his resilience, leadership, and belief that with patience, trust, and determination, there is nothing in life he cannot overcome.
Gallery: Our Honor Defend
Visit the Ohio State Team Shop for Official Our Honor Defend Hoodies, Tees, Hats & More!
Proceeds support military-connected student scholarships.
Our Honor Defend Events | |
Games | Date/Time |
Men's Basketball vs. App State | Tuesday, Nov. 11 | 6:30 p.m. |
Women's Hockey vs. Minnesota State* | Friday, Nov. 14 | 6 p.m.* |
Football vs. UCLA | Saturday, Nov. 15 | 7:30 p.m. |
Women's Basketball vs. Kent State | Wednesday, Nov. 19 | 6:30 p.m. |
Women's Volleyball vs. Northwestern | Friday, Nov. 21 | 6 p.m. |
Men's Hockey vs. Bowling Green | Friday, Jan. 2 | 6:30 p.m. |
Wrestling vs. Indiana | Sunday, Jan. 11 | 1 p.m. |
Women's Gymnastics vs. Illinois | Sunday, Jan. 25 | 6 p.m. |
All events will offer 2 complimentary tickets for veterans or active duty members of the military to claim through https://www.vettix.org/.
*Military members can visit the Ticket Office on that game day and show their military badge or ID for 2 complimentary tickets.
