Today, I stand on the front lawn of our building surrounded by hundreds of fellow employees. The flags are whipping in the wind, and we’re huddled together against the early morning breeze. We’re at our Veterans Day ceremony. This year, we’re honoring one of our own, in addition to U.S. soldiers worldwide.
All around me, people are lost in thought. Some maybe thinking: “It’s freezing outside. I wish I had coffee,” or “Isn’t there supposed to be food?”
However, as the speakers take the stage, stillness settles over us. Everyone is reminded why we’re here. A whirlwind of emotions stirs. If asked offhand how I feel on occasions like this one, I’d say “proud.” But, it’s not that simple. It goes far beyond the shallowness of pride.
I have a deep gratitude and reverence for people who have, did or will offer their lives to defend this great nation. Even more so, as having had the privilege of serving more than 20 years in the Air Force and Air National Guard, I’m extremely grateful for the life changing, character building experiences the military provided me.
Recently, I read an account of a mother who, after talking with a soldier about to deploy, spoke the following:
“What is this soldier’s greatest fear? Not being killed in action. Not being seriously wounded or even maimed. He does not fear the enemy. He does not fear stifling heat, torrential sandstorms or fighting for his life in heavy body armor. No, the young soldier’s greatest fear is that he won’t be remembered.”
So, to add to my emotions of gratitude and reverence, I’d say I “care.” I care to honor and remember our soldiers and their sacrifices.
This morning, the Family of Companies, too, pauses to remember our veterans. Also, we pay special recognition to our friend Kent Sunderland, who earlier this year retired as the Command Chief Master Sergeant of the Illinois Air National Guard. He has given many years and untold sacrifices to our country, all while being a highly respected leader at COUNTRY Financial.
Whether or not you know someone in the military, we citizens have personal bonds to our brave soldiers. They voluntarily bear our burden – putting themselves in discomfort and harm’s way – so that we may live free, safe lives. This Veterans Day, whether you’re feeling proud, caring, relieved, happy or sorrowful, don’t forget to be thankful and recognize our country’s selfless guardians.
(Sean Wells is the Chief Executive Officer of the IAA Credit Union)
THANK YOU !!!
Signed one of many life’s saved by YOU!!!
I’ve been a Cotton States agent for 16 years and in the business for almost 20. I’ve met very few prior service members in this business and often wondered why. Perhaps I haven’t looked hard enough. However, I viewed your video commemorating Veterans Day and felt proud there is someone in this company wearing the Blue uniform. My years in the U S Air Force started in 1965 and ended in 1991 (mustang). I’m in this business by accident, however, I’ve loved every minute of it. I often wish I was still in the fight and there were a lot more of us in the company to rally around. I close my office on Veterans Day and head to town to see what’s going on and there’s plenty of activity since Robins AFB is the engine in this area. I see and hear and remember and the best part is the gratitude exibited by the “civilians” today. Wasn’t that way when I returned from SEA at San Francisco airport in 1969 or any other place in this country.
To a fellow career Vet…thanks Sean…and see what you can do to close the company down on Veterans Day for next year.
Dan Youngclaus
Major, USAF (Ret)
Thank you for your comments… I am humbled to be counted among the Veterans worldwide – most of whom have sacrificed so much more than I. We all covet and appreciate the fellowship and comradery of our Brothers and Sisters in Arms and the acknowledgement of a grateful Nation. Dan – I look forward to meeting you sometime and sharing some stories of our times as “Blue Suiters”
Thank you for your service. I appreciate you.
Christine