USC President C. L. Max Nikias speaks at the dinner honoring USC veterans and ROTC students. (USC Photo/Steve Cohn)

It’s a USC tradition to honor Trojan veterans with an annual banquet; after all, USC’s relationship with the Reserve Officer Training Corps goes back decades.

This year’s event, held March 30 at The Westin Bonaventure hotel, took on special meaning as it coincided with the 100th anniversary of the creation of ROTC.

Retired Gen. David Petraeus introduces Retired Gen James Mattis at the USC veterans dinner. (USC Photo/Steve Cohn)
Retired Gen. David Petraeus introduces Retired Gen James Mattis at the USC veterans dinner. (USC Photo/Steve Cohn)

Among those taking part in the celebration were USC President C. L. Max Nikias; his wife, Niki C. Nikias; and retired Gen. David Petraeus, a Judge Widney Professor in the USC Price School of Public Policy. Retired Gen. James N. Mattis delivered the keynote address.

Guests enjoy the gala honoring USC veterans and ROTC students. (USC Photo/Steve Cohn)
Guests enjoy the gala honoring USC veterans and ROTC students. (USC Photo/Steve Cohn)