For me, Veteran’s Day is not just a date on the calendar. It’s a day of deep personal reflection—remembering the journey, the sacrifices, and the lessons learned along the way. I reflected deeply on November 11, 2020, journaling my thoughts and emotions.
24 Years of Service and the Lessons Learned
Serving 24 years in the United States Army wasn’t just a job but a calling. The pay might have been modest, and the food—the Salisbury steak had a texture akin to eating a frisbee—but what I gained from those years of service far outweighed any challenges. The experiences, insights, and camaraderie were priceless.
The Army didn’t just teach me to remain calm in the face of chaos, manage risk effectively, and lead driven men and women. It instilled these lessons in me, shaping a unique perspective on life rooted in discipline, honor, and a deep sense of purpose that endures long after my service.
Being a part of something bigger than myself, which has stood for 245 years, was both humbling and empowering. It’s an experience that continues to shape who I am today. If all the Army had given me was “three hots and a cot,” I would still have served with the same dedication and pride. For me, it was never about the material rewards; it was about the honor of serving alongside heroes and being a part of a legacy that defends freedom and the American way of life.
The Heroes Who Shaped My Journey
Throughout my career, I have been privileged to serve with some of the most remarkable individuals—men and women who exemplify courage, honor, and dedication. I’ve served alongside a Medal of Honor recipient, shared experiences with countless heroes and played a role in organizations that have left an indelible mark on history.
My time as the Senior Advisor for a Headquarters Staff, along with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the U.S. Army Drill Team as part of our organization, allowed me to honor our fallen, paying respect to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Serving at Arlington Cemetery in the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, the oldest active infantry regiment in the Army’s inventory, known as the ‘Escort to the President of the United States’ or ‘The Last Defense of the National Capital Region,’ I was reminded daily of the cost of freedom and the importance of preserving the ideals that our nation was founded upon.
One of my life’s most challenging and rewarding experiences was leading and serving alongside men and women in the Triangle of Death—a place in Iraq where the stakes were high and the lessons learned were life-altering. In those moments, I realized that service wasn’t just about duty; it was about defending a way of life, ensuring that future generations would have the same opportunities and freedoms we cherish.
A Legacy of Service
My family’s legacy of service dates back long before my time. From the French and Indian War to the Revolutionary War and many more bloody times in our nation’s history, my ancestors have been a part of this nation’s history before it was even founded. By way of Philadelphia, the Ingles family entered the Allegheny Mountains and settled about 1747. I’m proud to carry forward this legacy, which has instilled in me the values of hard work, discipline, and an unwavering sense of duty.
Veteran’s Day reminds us of the honor and privilege of serving this great nation. It’s a day to reflect on the sacrifices made, the battles fought, and the victories won. But it’s also a day to look forward to—to continue serving in some capacity, to represent the ideals that this nation was built upon, and to honor those who have served, are serving, and will serve in the future.
Duty, Honor, Country
As I reflected on my years of service, the words “Duty, Honor, Country” resonated deeply. These are more than just words; they are the foundation of my character, the guiding principles that have shaped my life and will continue to do so.
In moments of doubt, when the challenges seem insurmountable, I remember my training. I remember the values instilled in me by my service. The same values so few have the opportunity to experience. And I am reminded that no matter how deep the pit, there is always a way out, guided by the principles of duty, honor, and country.
Final Thoughts: Gratitude in Service
Veteran’s Day is a time to be grateful for the experiences, lessons, and opportunities of serving our nation. It’s a time to honor those who have come before us, those we served with, and those who will continue the legacy of service.
As I look back on my journey, I am filled with a deep sense of pride and strength and a renewed commitment to continue serving in whatever capacity I can. Service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off; it’s a lifelong commitment to the values that make this nation great.
So, on this Veteran’s Day, I am grateful for the opportunity to have served, the lessons learned, and the chance to continue making an impact.