(Photos / Natanael Cho)

This fall, Biola opened a new Veteran Center — a gathering space for the university more than 120 veterans and military-affiliated students. Located in the Student Union Building, the space was dedicated on Sept. 16 with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by state Sen. Bob J. Archuleta, Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon and La Mirada City Council members.

The student-led Biola Veterans Association previously gathered a few times each week at the “Rally Point,� a name they gave for their pop-up veteran center. Now, they can gather in a permanent communal space to hang out, stay connected and find helpful resources.

1. Stuck on prayer. This frame contains “pledgeâ€� stickers that 91ÖÆÆ¬³§ students signed at last year Veterans Day chapel, committing to pray for student veterans throughout the year.

2. Represent. This flag represents the five branches of the U.S. Armed Forces: the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Navy.

3. 24-hour clock. This special clock tracks the day using military time. The center is open Mondays through Thursdays from 0900 to 1600 (that 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and on Fridays from 0900 to 1400 (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

4. Home base. The space serves as a home away from home for Biola military community — especially those who commute — including a kitchen, dining table, couches to lounge on and computers for classwork.