Today and every day we are thankful for those who have dedicated years of their lives to serve and fight for our freedom, safety, and country.
At World Synergy, we feel especially thankful for the members of our team who hold service close to their hearts. We sat down with a few members of our team who are proud veterans to gain a better understanding of what Veterans Day means to them.
1. What division of the military did you serve in?
Troy: U.S. Army.
John: U.S. Army.
Arthur: U.S. Navy.
2. Number of years of service?
Troy: 5 years.
John: 21 years.
Arthur: 4 years.
3. What was your rank?
Troy: Sergeant/E5.
John: SSG – E6.
Arthur: Petty Officer Second Class.
4. While you were active, what was your job/duties — what type of work did you perform?
Troy: 73 Delta – Accounting and finance.
John: Construction Engineering / Demolition and Explosive Expert.
Arthur: I was an Information Systems Technician at Riverine Squadron 4. We conducted security operations throughout coastal areas and on rivers throughout the world. As an Information Systems Technician, I was responsible for operating and maintaining the radio communications systems, and the mobile network systems that supported our missions.
5. While you were active, what was your favorite or most meaningful place traveled?
Troy: I originally was stationed in Lawton, Oklahoma for one year. Then I spent the next 4 years stationed in Bamberg, Germany where I was deployed to Poland, Iceland, Greenland, Bosnia, and Kuwait.
John: Nicaragua – it was a humbling experience to visit a 3rd world Country. You gain a better vision of just how good our lives are even on our worst days compared to the lives that many of these people live.
Arthur: During my 4 years, I spent my time throughout the Middle East. What will always stick out to me is being able to experience other cultures entirely. By experiencing other cultures I gained a deeper appreciation for human life and the little things we tend to take for granted living in our country.
6. Did your military experience influence your thinking about the military in general?
Troy: The military gave me a great foundation. I’m always grateful for the things I learned and continue to apply them today.
John: Yes, you gain a very different view as to what the military does and how it works. The bonds that are built and friendships that are made.
Arthur: I consider anyone who is serving or has served as my second family. I formed unbreakable bonds with everyone who I served with and it extends to any new veteran I meet.
7. What does being a veteran mean to you?
Troy: Being a veteran means a lot – I still have close friends in the service. It’s an honor to serve and be a part of a special family.
John: Being a veteran means that I chose to do what not everyone is willing to or can do, for my family, my friends, my country and for myself. A time in my life I can look back on and say “Yes, I am proud of the time I gave”.
Arthur: Being a veteran means extreme sacrifice by yourself and your family. It means that you still get goosebumps during the national anthem. It means that even though your body is riddled with aches and pains, you would do it all over again in a heartbeat. Why? Because you love this country of ours and are proud of it. Proud of our past, present, and future military members and the sacrifices that they have made to allow us to enjoy the freedoms we have today.
On behalf of the World Synergy team, thank you to all who have served and currently serve for the freedom of our country!