Photo By Pfc. Isaiah Jackson | University of Kentucky President Dr. Eli Capilouto cuts the ribbon marking the...... read more read more
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LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Kentucky National Guard partnered with the University of Kentucky to support the reopening of Memorial Coliseum during a ceremony, April 26, 2025. The event marked the completion of an $82 million renovation, preserving the historic character of the facility while incorporating modern upgrades. The ceremony served as a tribute to legacy, service, and community, with the Guard playing a prominent role in honoring the building’s original dedication to fallen service members.
Originally dedicated in 1950 to honor Kentuckians who died while serving in World War II, the Korean War and other conflicts, Memorial Coliseum has long stood as a symbol of sacrifice and remembrance. Its reopening brought a deep sense of reflection and reverence, highlighted by the presence of the Kentucky Army National Guard’s 138th Field Artillery Brigade and the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade.
Col. Mark Roland, a veteran and Gold Star father, addressed the crowd during the ceremony, offering a personal reflection on courage and sacrifice telling the story of how his son fell in battle, further highlighting the significance of the day.
“As a veteran and a Gold Star father, I am heartened that there are places like this coliseum and patriots like you that appreciate our service, our sacrifices, and honor our legacy when we fall in service,” said Roland. “This building is a symbol of service, strength and sacrifices, and as such we hope that this is a lasting source of inspiration to our fellow man regardless of what that service looks like.”
Guardsmen also supported logistical operations during the event and engaged with attendees at a community outreach booth showcasing Guard vehicles and recruitment opportunities.
University of Kentucky Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart emphasized the importance of honoring veterans while preparing the facility for the future.
“The Memorial Coliseum represents more than just athletics,” said Barnhart. “It represents sacrifice, commitment, and the enduring bond between our university and the people of this Commonwealth—especially those in uniform.”
With military personnel in attendance and the community rallying around a shared space steeped in patriotic history, the reopening felt as much like a homecoming as a debut. For both the university and the Kentucky National Guard, the revitalized Memorial Coliseum now serves not only as a center for athletic excellence, but as a space where heritage, service, and community converge.
The extensive renovations—carried out by HNTB and RossTarrant Architects—introduced modern amenities like air conditioning, new seating, LED lighting, a center-hung scoreboard, and redesigned concourses. The venue, now more intimate with a reduced capacity of 6,500, will continue to be the home of Kentucky’s women’s basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, and STUNT teams.
| Date Taken: | 04.26.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 05.04.2025 13:31 |
| Story ID: | 496328 |
| Location: | LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY, KENTUCKY, US |
| Web Views: | 12 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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