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 The Viera Senior Living in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Cecil M. spent 12 years in the Navy, serving from 1979-1991 as a Communications Officer. He says his time in the Armed Forces led him to become a leader. “I learned that my most important resources were ‘my people,’” he says. “Those who worked under me – I was to treat them like gold even when I had to discipline them. I changed behavior, not spirits.” Cecil enjoyed the six months he was stationed in Chile and says, “the time I spent in the Navy was the best!”
Frank M. served in the Marine Corps from 1957-1963 as a Field Artilleryman. “The training was difficult and demanding,” he says. “I learned discipline and respect.” Frank enjoyed the camaraderie that he had with his fellow Marines. “I am proud that I put my life on the line to continue having all the freedoms that we all enjoy,” he says.
John H. served in the Army from 1952-1954 as a truck driver in Korea. During his time there, he remembers taking a helicopter ride to Pusan for a resupply, which he says is among his favorite memories. John says his service taught him hard work and discipline and “helped me appreciate American freedoms.”
Ken W. served in the Marines from 1962-1990, retiring as a Sergeant Major. His favorite memories were working as a team, and he says he learned to “always be on time and complete your job or mission 100 percent.”
Joseph M. served in the Navy from 1966-1988 as a Cryptologic Linguist specializing in the Russian language during the Cold War. He spent time in Greece and the Aleutian Islands of Alaska, where he enjoyed hunting. “[My service] gave me a sense of pride and accomplishment,” he says. “Work hard and you will succeed.”
Norman K. served in the Navy from 1951-1984, working as an Air Traffic Controller and in the field of airspace management. His service, he says, taught him to have immense pride in his country and respect its constitutional method of government.
David H. was a self-described “juvenile brat” when he joined the Navy in June of 1959. A few years of service, he says, turned him into “a grown man that could handle responsibilities.” David served from 1959-1983 as an Aircraft Mechanic, serving on a flight crew and spending time on an aircraft carrier. He traveled to more than 60 countries and traveled around the world three times.