The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is partnering with Louisiana State University (LSU) and Tulane University through the Mississippi River Delta Transition Initiative (MissDelta), a $22 million, five-year project that includes 38 investigators who will seek strategies to promote sustainability of the marine ecosystem for the northern Gulf Coast.

Andrew L. Pickens, Sr. is a retired U.S. Army veteran with 25 years of service.

He was raised in the small town of Cordele, GA, and enlisted in the Army in Georgia. After basic training at Fort Jackson, SC, and advanced individual training in Supply at Fort Lee, VA, he reported to his first duty station at Fort Campbell, KY. 

Veterans Day is a day for us to slow down, so that we can honor and celebrate the sacrifices of the brave men and women who selflessly serve our nation. There are so many emotions that are tied into this special day, and I’m sure most people would agree; however, the sentiment I feel myself going back to the most is simply gratitude.