We are so thankful for the men and women who have served our country and defended our freedom!
In the leadup to Veterans Day, we asked veterans across Sagora communities to share their experiences with us, including the lessons they learned and their favorite memories from their time in the US Armed Forces. We’re so thankful for those who shared their experiences with us. Here are the stories from veterans at Adante Independent Living in San Antonio, Texas.
Janet G. served in the Air Force from 1982-2002, working in supply and logistics. Her time in the service helped her learn how to be her own person, enjoy life and build a career. She enjoyed seeing other countries and meeting new people. “There is more to life than just the USA,” she says. Following her time in the Air Force, Janet worked for the federal government.
Fred O. served in the Army from 1961-1963. As part of his duties, he inspected food processing plants. Fred says he learned a lot about the food industry and also learned how to depend on those who worked for him. After his time in the Army, he became a veterinarian.
Steve N. served in the Army from 1963-1965 as a personnel specialist. He says the Army gave him the opportunity to enjoy the smaller things in life and to never question his superiors. His favorite memory from his service was getting married.
Hugh M. served in the Air Force as a respiratory therapist from 1965-1973. He says he “learned what not to do in life.” He enjoyed being stationed in Athens, Greece and the opportunities to travel.
David K. served in the Air Force from 1963-1993, working as a dentist. He enjoyed going to Germany because it gave him opportunities to explore Europe.
Ernie K. served in the Army from 1951-1953 where he played in the band. His musical talent led him to play in big events across the country, including a show in New York and at the Kentucky Derby. He says he learned that “music is a beautiful thing in life.”
Paul C. served in the Army from 1957-1959. He says he was assigned to be a company clerk “because nobody else knew how to type.” He learned how to maintain a positive attitude and be a better person, making quite a few friends along the way.
Tom H. served in the Navy from 1962-1982, both on active duty and in the reserves. His time in the Navy taught him the importance of leadership and his favorite memory was bringing his ship in for the last time.
Harry S. served in the Army National Guard in the early 1960s, where he worked as a sign maker. He was stationed in New Jersey.
Richard D. served in the Air Force from 1959-1989 as an officer in logistics and supply. He retired as a Colonel, with a tour in Vietnam and other assignments in countries like Turkey and Korea. He enjoyed being a leader and working in a capacity where he could guide others and work as a team.
Arthur B. served in the Army from 1963-1968, doing two years of active duty and three years in the reserves. He worked in the Medical Corps as a corpsman and hospital administrator, also doing a stint as a chemical weapons trainer. He enjoyed his time in the Army and says if he didn’t have to go to battle, he would do it all over again.
Joe G. served in the Air Force from 1960-1981. He was an accountant and instructor, even doing some work inside the Pentagon. He says that his time in the Air Force led him to meet some of the greatest coworkers and bosses that he has ever had.
Harvey R. served in the Army from 1962-1965, where he worked as a pharmacist and in data entry. He enjoyed traveling and was able to meet his wife while in the Army. He credits his service with giving him the skills that he needed to open and operate a successful pharmacy following his discharge.
Louise K. served in the Air Force from 1943-1951, working as a nurse. During her service, she learned the importance of patience. She enjoyed traveling to Paris and other parts of Europe and North Africa, including Casa Blanca and Rome.