The United States established what is now called Veterans Day in 1919, marking the armistice ending World War I the previous year. This day has since become an important observance honoring the sacrifices, courage, and dedication of all those who have served our country and protected our freedoms.
On this Veterans Day, Capitol Technology University is proud to celebrate our military and veterans and the impacts they have made on our community, industry, and our country as we approach 100 years as a veteran-founded institution.
Veteran-Founded for Nearly 100 Years
In 1927, a US Navy veteran radio operator named Eugene H. Rietzke founded the Capitol Radio Engineering Institute (CREI) in Washington, DC. The school was Rietzke's vision brought to life, preparing skilled technicians for emerging technical careers.
Following World War II, CREI became one of the first three technical institutes in the country accredited by the Engineers’ Council for Professional Development, reinforcing its reputation for practical, career-focused technical education.
Today, Rietzke’s vision is fulfilled by Capitol Tech as we continue to uphold his mission and maintain a strong connection to the military community. Many of our current and past students, alumni, faculty, and staff are active duty or veterans.
Our partnerships with military and government organizations, such as the US Space Command, US National Guard, Community College of the Air Force, Maryland National Guard, National Defense University, and National Cryptologic School also help us preserve the tradition of supporting service members, veterans, and their families with education and career advancement.
For several consecutive years, Capitol Tech has earned recognition as both a Military Friendly® School and a Military Supportive College, reflecting our ongoing commitment to making higher education accessible. We offer expanded support for military personnel and veteran students, including tuition benefits for Maryland National Guard members and participation in the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, and Yellow Ribbon Program. These programs help military-connected students translate their training and experience into academic credentials and new professional opportunities.
Reflections from Our Veterans
We asked a few of our Capitol Tech community who served what Veterans Day means to them, and how Capitol Tech fosters a supportive, military-friendly community.
"I am always proud to recognize that Capitol Technology University was veteran-founded as Capitol Radio Engineering Institute (CREI) by Eugene H. Rietzke US Navy (Ret.) in 1927. Our cybersecurity programs were conceived and developed in the late 1990's through the vision and leadership of a remarkable group of veterans. In particular, Dr. David Ward, US Marine Corps (Ret.), and Professor Charles Cayot, US Army (Ret.), played instrumental roles in establishing the strong foundation upon which our cybersecurity programs continue to thrive today. Their military experience, commitment to service, and passion for developing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals helped shape a program that has become nationally recognized for excellence and innovation."
—Dr. William Butler, US Marine Corps, Colonel (Ret.)
Vice President of Cyber Science Outreach and Partnerships, Capitol Technology University
"Each year as Veterans Day approaches, I reflect on my military service and my journey toward becoming a proud United States Army veteran. That journey was not easy, though I recognize that many others faced greater hardships. Yet, from my induction through my retirement 30 years later, I experienced a growing sense of camaraderie with my brothers and sisters in arms. Looking back, I recognize the distinctive sense of community that military service created for me and so many others—a community that still carries over."
—Dr. Ron Martin, US Army, Major (Ret.)
Doctoral Chair, Adjunct Professor, CPP, MSI, Capitol Technology University
"My 24 years in the U.S. Army instilled the discipline and sense of mission that I bring to mentoring every doctoral candidate. Capitol Technology University honors that service and turns veterans' experience into research experts. 'Changing the World, One Doctor at a Time, Through Research.' "
—Dr. Donovan Wright, US Army, Major (Ret.)
Adjunct Professor, Capitol Technology University
Our Military-Friendly Mission Continues
As a veteran-founded institution, a strong sense of military heritage is woven into Capitol Technology University's identity, history, and mission. As we approach our 100th anniversary in 2027, we continue to offer specialized programs in cybersecurity, engineering, critical infrastructure, counterterrorism, technology management, and more for the collective workforce. We remain committed to honoring military experience, recognizing the value of service, and helping service members and veterans prepare for the exciting opportunities ahead.
We thank all military members for their service!