Pooler Magazine July/August issue by JDelSUR Marketing Group

TRUST YOUR GUT

To The Experts In Hernia Repair

While other hospitals may treat hernias, St. Joseph’s/Candler is the region’s only Hernia Center of Excellence accredited by the national Surgical Review Corporation (SRC). Such recognition means patients usually have better outcomes, faster recovery and reduced risk of complications. Choose the region’s smartest choice in hernia repair.

Call our dedicated Hernia Coordinator at 912-819-2778 or visit sjchs.org/hernia to schedule your consultation.

PARENT COMMUNICATION

With the Procare Parent connect, parents communicate with the teaching staff in real time to receive updates about classroom activities, program happening and photos of your child at play and learning.

CAMERA ACCESS

ANGEL LEARNING CENTER is a nationally accredited private learning center that provides a premier early education and child care experience for children and families. Our Owners, Leadership Teams, and School Staff partner with parents to help build the right foundation for future learning and in life.

Through a partnership with "Watch Me Grow," parents have camera access to their child’s classroom. Each classroom has two cameras so parents can get a peek at their little one any time throughout the day. We believe in open access throughout the day, which gives parents piece of mind.

SIGN UP & STAY CONNECTED

Sign up for our program at angellearningcenter.com under the Register Now section and Savannah/Pooler. Or check out our Facebook page to see what we do throughout the day.

ANGEL LEARNING CENTER IS EXPANDING TO POOLER PARKWAY! Our newest location will open in the Winter of 2025 on Pooler Parkway by Savannah Quarter. Join the waitlist for our new

PUBLISHER

Jan Southern

Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com 912-318-8645

CLIENT SERVICES

Christie Wilson, Director of Advertising

Christie@JDelSURMarketing.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Kim Schippel

Kim@JDelSURMarketing.com

OFFICE MANAGER

Chris Antonio

DESIGN

Laura Zielinski

DISTRIBUTION

Penny Redmond

Pooler Magazine is proudly produced by:

135 Goshen Rd Ext., Suite 251, Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 295-5406

PoolerMagazine.com

J. DelSUR Marketing Group is the publisher of Effingham Magazine, Pooler Magazine and Bryan County Magazine in South Georgia. We are a full service marketing agency with products that include print, digital and social media marketing.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Write and tell us what you think. Pooler Magazine welcomes all letters to the editor. Please send letters to Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com. Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact. Phone numbers will not be published.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS

Pooler Magazine welcomes story ideas from our readers. If you have a story idea or photos to share, please submit ideas and material to Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com. Stories or ideas for stories must be submitted by email. Only feature stories and photo essays about people, places or things in the Pooler area will be considered.

CIRCULATION: Pooler Magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed to hundreds of locations throughout the area, as well as mailed to thousands of homes. The full magazine is available online at PoolerMagazine.com.

Views expressed in editorial or advertising do not imply endorsement by J. DelSUR Marketing Group.

Reproduction in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

THOUGHTS

Veterans & First Responders

This Veterans/First Responder issue is one I’m particularly excited to share with you. We’ve got some incredible stories from right here in our backyard that I think you’re going to love.

First up, we’re featuring The National Nurse Honor Guard here in Pooler. These women are doing important work honoring healthcare heroes who’ve passed away, and their dedication to making sure no nurse is forgotten really speaks to who we are as a community.

We also sat down with William Mark McCullough, a local actor who just appeared in Marvel’s “Captain America: Brave New World.” It’s pretty cool to see someone from our area making it to the big screen, especially in a movie about American heroes.

And then there’s Tirzah Daniel’s story—her journey from Savannah Arts Academy to the U.S. Naval Academy. Talk about setting your sights high and following through. Her path shows what’s possible when you combine talent with hard work and determination.

What I love about these stories is they’re all connected to our area. These aren’t distant heroes we read about—they’re our neighbors, people who grew up in the same schools and communities we know well.

As we put together this issue honoring veterans and first responders, it struck me how many different ways people serve. Whether it’s military service, healthcare, or firefighters and other first responders, service comes in all forms.

To everyone who has served or continues to serve our community and country—thank you. Your commitment makes a difference, and we’re proud to call you neighbors.

CEO/Publisher Pooler Magazine

Jan Southern

Heroes Among Us

Honoring Those Who Serve & Protect

Mark Mccullough Marvels over his Brave New World

Story by Gail Mihalik

If you've been around Savannah in the last few years, you've probably seen local actor William Mark McCullough. A Savannah native, Mark has worked hard to develop his talents, skills, and reputation as a prolific actor. From gracing local productions to appearing alongside Hollywood heavyweights, his journey is a testament to perseverance and authenticity. We are honored to get an in-depth look at the man behind the intense characters who has never forgotten his Savannah roots.

I recently spent some time with Mark, learning about his life's adventures with his childhood friends and family. He shared how he was motivated to move from a law career to acting, restructuring his whole personality to gain roles in the industry. Through it all, he remains thankful for his experiences and the backing of friends and family. Mark is a kind gentleman who portrays some of life's evil dudes.

Those Younger Years

Brought up in the surrounding area of Savannah, Mark lived a very simple life with his mom and siblings, moving around to multiple trailer parks. With his parents separated, he spent time between the two, learning two very different ways of growing up. His mom was a very protective soul, always teaching right from wrong and ensuring her children were cared for and safe. Dad taught life lessons and kept the boyhood adventures alive. Mark said his mom would have lost her mind "if she knew some things." Mark and his dad stuck together. With mom's upbringing, Mark became a true Southern gentleman, a kind soul keeping his priorities in line.

His favorite boyhood memories are of his five brothers and four sisters heading out for the day to play and just have fun in the neighborhood. Imagination was the name of the game for these kids. Many days, he and his friends would be out enjoying the day, using their imaginations and creating adventures from dawn to dusk.

After high school, Mark attended Mercer University to study political science. He needed to pick an elective in art; his choices were limited: art history or acting. With much reluctance, Mark ended up choosing to act. His knowledge of art and colors was limited, so he chose acting as the lesser of two evils. With much surprise, Mark found out in his first acting class that it was his hidden gem. He read his first monologue and felt a fire in his soul, wanting to continue to perfect this new hidden talent. After graduating from Mercer University with a BA in theater and political theory, Mark went on to American University in Washington, DC, to gain a JD and Juris Doctor degree, which enabled him to work as a prosecutor on Capitol Hill. He felt his acting background in the courtroom was beneficial. He honed his acting skills and craft in the courtroom, but somehow, he felt it wasn't enough.

The Path to Performance

After high school, Mark attended Mercer University to study political science. When faced with choosing an art elective, his

options were limited: art history or acting. With reluctance, he chose acting, viewing it as the lesser of two evils given his limited knowledge of art. Surprisingly, his first acting class revealed a hidden talent. After performing his first monologue, he felt a fire in his soul that demanded to be nurtured. Following his BA in theater and political theory from Mercer University, Mark pursued a JD at American University in Washington, DC. As a Capitol Hill prosecutor, he found his acting skills beneficial, but something was still missing.

Time for Reflection and Moving On

A serious accident in Nicaragua gave Mark five weeks to reflect on his life, helping him realize what was missing. Though he enjoyed law, his passion for acting couldn't be ignored. Following his heart, he packed up and headed to Los Angeles, beginning what he now calls "The Ramen Noodle Years."

The LA Learning Curve

Initially, Mark struggled without proper industry knowledge or direction. Competing among thousands of aspiring actors made landing roles particularly challenging. "One of the many mistakes," he admits, was approaching film auditions with his theater training. He learned that while theater requires projecting energy to the back of the room, camera acting demands subtle, natural communication –"being real in the moment without performing."

An eye-opening experience came during one of his acting classes. Paired with a classmate for a public exercise, Mark's partner asked strangers to circle adjectives that described him. The results were unanimous – people saw him as "the Bad Guy." Words like "notorious," "tense," and "violent" consistently appeared. This revelation led to a complete rebranding, from his headshot to his persona, embracing the dark, edgy, tough-guy image. That's when his career truly began to take off.

Breaking Through

After settling in LA and gaining proper training, Mark worked through numerous low-budget productions before landing his first network television role – a one-episode appearance as "T-Shirt Guy" on "Secrets and Lies" in 2015. His persistence paid off as his resume grew to include impressive projects like Ron Howard's "Hillbilly Elegy," where he played a tough Southern cop, and "American Made," appearing alongside Tom Cruise as a gun and drug-smuggling villain. His work with Nicholas Cage in "Arsenal" and recurring roles in television series like "Sweet Magnolias," "The Walking Dead," "Swamp Thing," and "The Gifted" have established him as a versatile character actor.

A Return to Savannah

Mark's recent accomplishments include the awardwinning film "A Savannah Haunting," which he wrote, produced, and appeared in. The film tells the story of a California family who moves to Savannah after losing their daughter in a drowning accident, only to encounter unexplained phenomena in their new home. The story draws from true paranormal events that occurred in an actual haunted house on Abercorn Street – now Mark's home city once again.

Giving Back Through Teaching

When not on set, Mark channels his experience into the Savannah Actors Studio, where he mentors upcoming actors. His approach at WorkingActorLab.com goes beyond traditional acting instruction, focusing on real-world industry challenges and business strategy. "You are the owner and operator of your own business," he emphasizes, "marketing a product –YOURSELF." His goal-oriented teaching style includes helping students develop one-month to ten-year plans, with short-term goals always kept close for daily reference.

Marvel Dreams Realized

A major milestone on Mark's vision board materialized when he joined the Marvel universe alongside Anthony Mackie (Sam Wilson) as U.S. Navy SEAL Dennis Dunphy. What began as a single-scene role expanded due to Mark's intense performance, with his character becoming known to comic fans as Demolition Man or D-Man. The experience brought unexpected lightness to his typically intense roles, as Mackie's humor kept the cast laughing between takes. "One of the hardest things I had to do while working was to compose myself between takes," Mark recalls.

The Hollywood premiere challenged the naturally reserved actor. Walking the red carpet and navigating the flash of cameras pushed him out of his comfort zone. True to his humble nature, Mark reflects, "I don't need to have the starring role; I enjoy being part of the project to help its success." His quick return to Savannah after the premiere exemplifies his grounded approach to fame.

Looking Forward

Currently, Mark is developing a television series inspired by his late father's life. The show, a raw, grounded comedy set in a trailer park near Savannah, draws from real people and events from his childhood. As he continues to work, plan, and teach, Mark's authentic approach to both life and acting continues to open new doors in the industry. ■

New patients could win a complimentary TEETH WHITENING!

GODLEY STATION DENTAL CELEBRATES 21 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Godley Station Dental is celebrating 21 years in business this month, offering new patients an opportunity to win a complimentary teeth whitening, and for those patients without dental insurance, a healthy alternative, with their Elite Dental Savings Plans. The award-winning practice, which began with an office administrator and two hygienists, today has a team of six doctors who pride themselves on education and patient care, and more than 45 clinical team members and support staff. The team has accumulated thousands of five-star online reviews for their elevated approach to patient care.

“Those relationships are what’s the most important and rewarding thing about what we do,” said founding dentist and CEO, Dr. Matthew J. Allen. “Over 21 years, we’ve seen graduations, marriages, and all sorts of life milestones with our patients, and it’s what really makes it rewarding to be a dentist.”

Trusted by more than 30,000 patients in Pooler, Savannah and the Lowcountry, Dr. Allen is grateful to have made an impact on patients’ lives, but it’s the impact on his team members lives that he’s most proud of.

“While we love to make an impact

in the community, we’re probably most proud of the lives that we’ve really been able to impact of the team members that work with us and work on our patients every day,” he said. “If you count spouses and children, we have probably in excess of 200 people that we get to support.”

Established in 2004, Godley Station Dental was voted a Best of Georgia Regional Winner for dentists in Georgia Business Journal’s annual readers’ poll, and earned recognition as a Best Place to Work in the Best of Pooler 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards presented by Pooler Magazine.

With an innovative approach to patient care, prompt scheduling, and five-star service, GSD provides not only general and cosmetic dentistry, but reconstructive oral healthcare through extensive experience with implant-based solutions, and is a leader in treating patients with a history of sleep apnea.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 912748-8585 or visit GodleyStationDental.com.

Dr. Matthew J. Allen Founder and CEO

mom-ing UN FILTERED

Finding Magic in the Madness of Motherhood

SPORTS MOM CHRONICLES: Bleacher Butt and Snack Duty Pressures

by Alycia Calderin

There’s a certain magic to being a sports mom. It’s a chaotic, coffee-fueled world where your evenings and Saturdays disappear into a haze of assorted sports cleats, goldfish crackers, and folding chairs. It’s the ultimate unpaid internship – part-time cheerleader, part-time event planner, and full-time snack czar.

Picture this: it’s 7:30 a.m., you’re rushing to make it to the field. Someone’s left their shin guards at home, another insists they can’t possibly play without their lucky headband, and you’re clutching your travel mug like it’s the only thing keeping you upright. Or it’s 5:50 p.m., and you’re dashing from the office, grabbing quick dinner from the concession stand, racing to make it before your kid’s turn at bat.

You finally pull into the lot, unload the gear, and claim your spot on the sidelines with a lawn chair, wrapped in a blanket even though it’s technically spring. The wind is blowing, the ref is missing obvious calls, and somewhere behind you, a younger sibling is building a dirt empire.

Welcome to the world of sports moms, where our calendars are full and our trunks double as snack bars.

The Snack Game

Snack duty is not for the weak. The unspoken pressure to outdo the last family who showed up with custom labeled water bottles and Pinterest-perfect treats is real. You thought Capri Suns and Costco granola bars would suffice? Rookie mistake. By the time your day rolls around, Jen has already set the bar with homemade organic protein muffins, and Amanda brought individually wrapped nut-free, gluten-free, dairy-free snacks with thank you notes attached.

Meanwhile, you’re in the grocery store at 9 p.m., debating bulk Gatorade but remembering the unwritten rule: if you

get red, half the team will spill it on their jerseys before the team photo. You show up with Goldfish crackers, fruit snacks, and the reassurance that at least you didn’t forget. Again.

The Sports Mom Tribe

There’s nothing quite like the bond between sports parents. We’re a tribe united by bleacher butt, portable chairs, and constant referee whistles. We exchange knowing glances when a kid starts crying over a bad call, share sunscreen when the sun gets relentless, and commiserate over tournaments that happen in every town but our own. These moms become your lifeline – the ones who remind you what time practice starts and occasionally what day it is. We form friendships exchanging sideline wisdom on everything from meal prep hacks to carpool negotiations. We know which mom always has a first aid kit, which brings the best treats, and which is the unofficial team DJ.

Raising Sideline Siblings

If you’ve been a sports mom long enough, you’ve raised at least one “sideline sibling.” These pint-sized fans grow up season by season at the fields, running wild between bleachers with sticky faces, cheering for their older siblings with unmatched enthusiasm. They learn to sleep through whistles and buzzers, turn up in team photos uninvited, and commandeer soccer balls for impromptu games.

We watch them go from feral sideline dwellers to players themselves, finally old enough to lace up cleats and take the field. Their unbridled energy and love for the game remind us why we keep coming back, year after year.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Watching your kid play is a rollercoaster of emotions. You’ll see the one laser-focused, charging down the

field like their cleats are on fire, and then there’s the kid in the outfield picking dandelions, blissfully unaware the ball is headed their way. Both are equally endearing, though it takes patience not to yell “Heads up!” to the flower picker.

If you’re the coach’s spouse, chaos reaches a new level. Suddenly, you’re the default equipment manager, post-game cleanup crew, and sounding board for every analysis. You smile through pointed comments about playing time and pretend you haven’t heard the “you should’ve run zone defense” critique 14 times on the car ride home.

The Real Victory

Through it all, you learn that being a sports mom is about little victories: seeing your shy kid high-five a teammate, watching them score their first goal, and raising kids who understand teamwork, dedication, and showing up whether they win or lose.

For us moms, it’s about building community. It’s shared laughs over spilled drinks, group texts at 10 p.m. asking about practice schedules, and unwavering support because we’re all just trying to survive the madness.

So to all the moms lugging coolers and pop-up tents, applying bug spray, and cheering until hoarse: You’re the unsung heroes of youth sports. You’re raising team players, teaching life lessons, and showing your kids what it means to be there.

The road may be bumpy, but it’s worth every bleacher ache and early morning. Because in the end, it’s not just about the game – it’s about the time spent together along the way. ■

CHECK OUT THESE CUTIES!

The babies of course! All born within 3 months of each other. Left to right: FAO Jimmy Donnelly (Roman) February 25, Captain Michael Green (Pierce) March 25 and FAO Connor Reamy (Hayden) January 16.

FROM POOLER TO NAVY OFFICER: Tirzah Daniel’s Inspiring Path to Service

Story by Katrice Williams

On a beautiful May morning in Annapolis, Maryland, Tirzah Daniel could hardly contain her excitement as she sat among 1,047 fellow graduates at the U.S. Naval Academy’s Class of 2025 commencement ceremony. After four years of rigorous training, academic excellence, and unwavering determination, this Pooler native was about to achieve her dream of becoming a commissioned officer in the United States Navy.

“Oh my gosh. Finally, we are here. This is it,” she thought as the ceremony began. “When we leave this stadium, we are not midshipmen anymore.”

For Tirzah, this moment represented far more than just graduation—it was the culmination of a journey that began right here in our community and would soon take her to serve our nation with honor and distinction.

Roots in Pooler

Tirzah has called Pooler home her entire life, growing up alongside her parents Veronica and Reudal, and her sister Jael. As a 2020 graduate of Savannah Arts Academy, music was her first passion—she majored in both piano and chorus, talents that would later open unexpected doors during her naval career.

But it was during her junior year at SAA that Tirzah discovered her calling in military service. Learning about the Navy’s Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps sparked her interest in combining her love of law with military service. When she and her parents visited the Naval Academy’s Candidate Visit Weekend, she knew she’d found her path.

“It was everything I wanted out of a college experience. I admired the structure and discipline,” Tirzah recalls.

When One Door Closes

Like many great success stories, Tirzah’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. When her initial application to the Naval Academy was denied at the end of her senior year, she was heartbroken. But her mother’s wisdom would prove prophetic: “I don’t think your journey with the academy is over just yet.”

Instead of giving up, Tirzah enrolled at Savannah State University and joined their Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC). Surrounded by supportive mentors, including her NROTC gunnery sergeant and lieutenant, she found the encouragement and guidance she needed to reapply to the academy.

“Savannah State was where I needed to be at the time. It reinvigorated my love for learning. I was able to grow there. I don’t think I would’ve been ready for the academy without Savannah State,” she reflects.

The Call to Serve

The Naval Academy admission process is notoriously competitive, requiring not only academic excellence but also a congressional nomination. Tirzah vividly remembers her interview with a panel of 15 community leaders—walking into

that U-shaped room with one chair in the middle, she was nervous but determined.

“I walked up to every one of them and shook their hands because I wanted to relax and realize that they were just people,” she says. Her authenticity and preparation paid off—she received the nomination.

In May 2021, the call came: Tirzah had been accepted to the U.S. Naval Academy.

Forged by Challenge

The academy experience is designed to transform civilians into naval officers through rigorous academic, physical, and mental challenges. Tirzah’s journey began with “Plebe Summer”—a grueling 7½-week program that strips away the “I and me” mentality and builds a “we and us” mindset essential for military leadership.

With only two phone calls allowed during the entire summer, Tirzah treasured her connection to home. “I immediately burst into tears when I heard my mom say, ‘Hello, my baby,’” she remembers of that first precious call.

The academy’s Sponsor Family program provided additional support, pairing midshipmen with military families who welcomed them into their lives. Tirzah’s

sponsor mother, a senior chief in the Navy and member of the Sea Chanters Chorus, became an invaluable mentor and friend.

Finding Her Voice

Just when Tirzah thought her musical journey was over, she discovered the Naval Academy Glee Club. After auditioning successfully, she eventually became vice president, traveling across the country and abroad, creating “four years of amazing memories and amazing friendships.”

One of her most meaningful performances was at President Jimmy Carter’s State Funeral Services at Washington National Cathedral. “As a midshipman from Georgia myself, it really touched my heart. He was the only person from the academy who went on to become President,” she says.

Academic Excellence

The Naval Academy’s academic rigor is legendary, with core requirements including three semesters of calculus, two semesters each of chemistry and physics. Tirzah chose to major in English with a minor in Japanese, embracing

the academy’s philosophy as “a learning laboratory literally built for you to stumble and learn how to grow.”

A Moment of Triumph

Graduation day brought a flood of emotions as Vice Admiral Yvette Davids, the academy’s first female superintendent, officiated the ceremony. The most touching moment came when Tirzah’s parents placed her new officer bars on her shoulders while her sister placed her cover on her head.

“My dad changed my right shoulder, and my mom changed my left shoulder. Both were crying,” she recalls. “It had been a long journey through the academy. God got me through. I was feeling a lot of gratitude and some peace.”

Gratitude and Faith

Throughout her journey, Tirzah has been sustained by her faith and the support of her community. She’s especially grateful for her church family at Kingdom Life Christian Fellowship Church and the “serious prayer warriors” who covered her in prayer throughout her academy years.

“I could not get through the academy on my own. God didn’t send me here to do it by myself. It takes an entire

crew to run a ship,” she says, already thinking like the naval officer she’s become.

Serving Our Nation

As Ensign Tirzah Daniel begins her naval career as a division officer, she carries with her the values instilled by her Pooler upbringing, the excellence demanded by the Naval Academy, and the unwavering support of her community.

“I have no clue what’s in store, but I am so excited to finally put all the things I learned into practice,” she says.

From our community to the quarterdeck, Tirzah Daniel represents the very best of Pooler—determination, faith, service, and the courage to pursue dreams that serve something greater than ourselves. As she begins her naval career, she carries not just her own hopes and dreams, but the pride of an entire community that watched her grow from a music-loving teenager into a leader ready to serve our nation with honor.

We’re proud to call Ensign Tirzah Daniel one of our own, and we can’t wait to see how she continues to make Pooler proud as she serves our great nation. ■

Photograph by Leidy Lester

RANGER TOUGH Local Veteran Perseveres After Tragedy

Story by Stephen Prudhomme

Ryan Davis played baseball at the University of Texas in Arlington. He later worked in healthcare in Oklahoma City before joining the Army so he could go after the “bad guys.”

Using a baseball analogy, the bad guys knocked him down with a “pitch” that left him with extensive injuries and the loss of several limbs. Proving you can’t keep a good man down, Davis swung back at adversity and hit a metaphorical home run by adjusting to a new and challenging way of life in a manner that illustrates the power of the human mind and spirit and inspires others.

Davis, 38, lives in Richmond Hill with his wife and son. Since October 2023, they’ve lived in a home provided for them by veterans’ advocate and actor Gary Senise. Medically discharged from the Army in 2022, Davis is largely confined to a wheelchair with two prosthetic legs and a prosthetic arm. Despite these challenges, he’s not bitter about how his life has turned out.

“You will have challenges in life,” Davis said. “How you react to them is important. That will tell you how your life will pan out. I will not throw my hat in the ring and exchange it for another life. I would do it 1,000 times over to just have our life. American juice, I know it’s worth it.”

Before serving his country, Davis excelled on the diamond and earned a scholarship to UT Arlington. Saying he was thankful for the ride and recognizing he was a little small to pursue a professional career, Davis took a job in healthcare in Oklahoma City.

In 2012, motivated to do his part to end hostilities in the Middle East by eliminating the bad guys, Davis joined the Army, following his grandfather and uncle. He signed up to become an Army Ranger. “It was more of a smash force,” Davis explained. “It reminded me of baseball.”

The training, Davis said, is the toughest in the military, describing it as taking a person beyond broken. Growing up on a farm in Oklahoma, Davis learned about hard work at a young age, and he said that helped him do uncomfortable things during training.

Upon completion of Ranger training, Davis began a series of four-month deployments that took him to Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq. His tasks were varied and included helping set up a hospital and helping to save civilian lives during the Syrian conflict. “It was eye opening,” Davis said.

A week before his final deployment to the Middle East, Davis, on leave at Hunter Army Airfield, displayed his competitive spirit and determination by competing in his first marathon, on Hilton Head Island. He finished in under four hours and placed third in his age group.

Fresh off of meeting yet another challenge, Davis deployed to Afghanistan in August 2019 as a member of the 75th Ranger Regiment. He was part of a force

going after a “high level facilitator” of weapons when someone behind a wall started shooting at them. Davis went up to the wall to try and locate the shooter when it suddenly blew apart from a grenade explosion.

Davis said he felt his right leg shatter into 100 pieces up to his femur. His right arm was blown off past the elbow. Remaining fully conscious, Davis said a prayer for his wife and son and prepared to die. As he remarked, God wouldn’t have it. What followed was a new procedure and dramatic escape by MEDEVAC helicopter out of the line of fire. Through the Ranger O Low Titer (ROLO) blood transfusion procedure, used for the first time anywhere with Davis, the severely wounded Ranger soldier received two units of blood from a fellow soldier who had been identified as a universal donor and was carrying blood transfusion bags.

That donor was Dillion Throckmorton. He described Davis as a true Ranger who was always willing and ready to take on the enemy in any situation but would take time to mentor younger Rangers and lead by example. He added his personality and humor are contagious.

The injuries Davis sustained, Throckmorton recalled, were the worst he’s seen in battle. He said he was sent out to set up a landing zone for a MEDEVAC helicopter to evacuate Davis and the other casualties. When two helicopters were unable to land due to enemy fire and mortars, medics treated the wounded men for three hours in the dirt.

With Davis still needing blood and blood supplies the medics brought along having run out, the call went out for Throckmorton to be a donor. He said he was about 100 yards away and ran through an open field under enemy machine gun fire before lying down next to Davis and giving him two units of blood through the first time ROLO procedure.

The next task was to get Davis to a medical facility. It wouldn’t be easy. The first MEDEVAC helicopter was shot down, and the second one had fueling issues. The third helicopter was overloaded with 43 men and Davis and flew 93 feet over the river to avoid detection before finally arriving

at an old base, where people lined up to donate blood while under enemy mortar attacks.

Davis eventually made it back to the States. He spent the next two years at a hospital in San Antonio, enduring 35 surgeries in his first month. Davis said he was at death’s edge for the first three months and lost his left leg to a bad infection.

A despondent Davis recalled looking out of his room window at a nearby parking deck and envisioning himself taking a power wheelchair to the top deck and rolling off to his death. “It was a dark time,” he said. Once again, God had other plans for him.

Still battling infection, Davis was sent to intensive care. During the night, he heard anguished voices outside his room and said he thought he was imagining things. The next morning he learned the voices were real and they had belonged to five power workers who had been electrocuted. They were expressing regrets about their lives and how they would miss their families before they died.

“I’m pretty impressed with his organization,” Davis said. “Gary’s one of the most grateful people I know for his love of country and the freedoms we have.”

In an example of paying it forward, Davis has established a nonprofit company. He travels around the country giving inspirational speeches and helps disabled veterans modify their homes with funds he earns from the former.

Through such gratifying service and a loving wife, Asia, nicknamed Rattlesnake, and son, Knox, Davis appreciates the life he has and almost lost and how God was with him all along. “I never questioned if there’s a God,” said Davis, who has written a book, “Rattlesnake,” slated for release later this year and chronicling his life from baseball player to soldier to family man inspiring others through courage, determination and faith. My faith is stronger than ever.”

My faith has never been stronger. “ “

That experience, Davis said, gave him a greater appreciation for his life and family. He no longer thought about rolling his power wheelchair off the top level of the parking deck. Davis was further bolstered when President Trump, during his first term, mentioned his name during a ceremony recognizing the heroic efforts of his Ranger unit.

By 2021, Davis had recuperated enough to leave the hospital in San Antonio and go to Walter Reed Hospital for physical therapy. He remained there for a year before returning to Hunter Army Airfield and eventually getting a medical discharge. Then came an unexpected call from Sinise, who informed Davis his foundation would build a mortagagefree, 3,000-square-foot home in Richmond Hill on two acres for Davis and his family. The home was handicap accessible and fully stocked and furnished.

Davis’ determination to lead a normal life carries over, not surprisingly, to one of his first loves - athletics. He engages in skiing and shooting as he continues to challenge himself, just as he did with Ranger school and running a marathon.

Throckmorton said Davis has beaten every statistic and shouldn’t have survived such severe wounds. Remarking his friend’s recovery was a miracle, he said he thanks God for keeping them both alive and cherishes the small part he played in the survival of such a great friend and person. Given all Davis has endured, Throckmorton added, it’s not surprising how he quickly adopted to life without his previous mobility.

“For someone to go through what Ryan went through and continues to overcome with his injuries, no normal man could do what he is doing,” Throckmorton said. “He is still the same Ryan from before the explosion, just on wheels now. His example of perseverance and sheer willpower is an example to us all. Rangers Lead The Way.” ■

912.348.3600 215

Home Features: • Attached 1 or 2 car garage

White Shaker-style cabinetry • Granite countertops & ceramic subway tile backsplash • Whirlpool stainless steel appliance package • Refrigerator with ice maker

• Full sized washer / dryer • Open concept kitchen with large island & more!

Community Features:

• Within walking distance to Tanger Outlets

• Controlled-access community • 24/7 emergency maintenance

• Resort-inspired swimming pool • Poolside gas grills

• Outdoor firepit with social lounge

Pet friendly

Bocce ball court & more!

TNT PEST CONTROL & CONSULTING Your Neighbors in Pest Protection

Don't Let Pests Take Over Your Peace of Mind

As a locally owned and operated company, weunderstand Southeast Georgia's unique pest challenges. TNT Pest Control & Consulting delivers comprehensive solutions with the personal touch only neighbors can provide.

Complete Pest Management Services:

• Residential & Commercial Pest Control

• Advanced Rodent Management

• Mosquito Control Programs

• Wood-Destroying Organism Treatment

• Fumigation Consulting

• Prevention Strategy Development

Why Choose TNT?

• Local Expertise: Chuck and Mia Thompson are Effingham County natives with deep community roots

• Proven Experience: Nearly three decades in pest management

• Consultative Approach: We don't just treat problems—we prevent them

• Community Leadership: Trusted by neighbors, respected by peers

Ready to Protect Your Property? Call 912-667-7069 today for your FREE evaluation—serving Effingham County and surrounding areas

KEEP 2025 GOING STRONG!

We offer THE BEST ADVERTISING options to help you start the year strong for your business! Advertisers can appear in Bryan County Magazine, Pooler Magazine and Effingham Magazine—published in print and online—and are highlighted on social media.

July/Aug.: Veterans/First Responders

Sept./Oct.: Anniversary Issue/Best of Pooler Nov./Dec.: Shop Local/Holiday

July/Aug.: Veterans/First Responders Sept./Oct.: Discover Bryan Nov./Dec.: Shop Local/Anniversary

Aug./ Sept: Veterans/First Responders Oct./Nov.: Anniversary Issue/Best of Effingham Dec./Jan: Shop Local/Holiday

WHEN THE FINAL SHIFT COMES, NURSES STAND TOGETHER

Story by Gail Parsons

At a quiet funeral service in coastal Georgia, a small group of nurses in crisp white uniforms stands in solemn formation. One lights a lamp, its glow symbolizing a life spent in service. A bell rings three times, and moments later, the light is gently extinguished. The lamp is handed to the family—one final gesture of respect from nurses to one of their own.

This is the work of the Coastal Georgia First Nurse Honor Guard, a volunteer group dedicated to honoring nurses in life and death.

“Our main goal for everything we do is to honor nurses,” said Michele Roberts, co-founder and vice president of the chapter. “That's the heart of everything we do.”

A Growing Movement

The Honor Guard officially launched on August 23, 2024, serving Chatham, Bryan, and Liberty Counties, though they've extended beyond those borders when needed. The Coastal Georgia Honor Guard is part of a growing state and national movement gaining momentum as nurses across the country unite to recognize their peers in deeply meaningful ways.

The National Nurses Honor Guard began in 2003 through the Kansas State Nurses Association. Since then, local Honor Guards have grown to more than 250 chapters nationwide. Georgia alone has doubled its chapters over the past year, from seven to fourteen.

Michele and co-founder JJ Riley were moved to form the local chapter after seeing online videos of similar tributes.

“They have similar tributes for police and military,” JJ said. “But there was nothing like this for nurses, until now.”

The Nightingale Tribute

The group offers a five-minute ceremonial service performed at a nurse's funeral or memorial, called a Nightingale Tribute to honor Florence Nightingale, founder of modern nursing.

The ceremony symbolically releases the nurse from earthly duties and celebrates their career. A Nightingale lamp is lit to honor the nurse's life of service, then extinguished to signify rest. The lamp becomes a lasting keepsake for the family. A white rose, representing compassion and purity, is placed near the casket or urn, with additional roses given to loved ones.

While ceremonies bring closure to grieving families, they also affirm the dignity of the nursing profession itself.

“We've had so many people tell us they've witnessed other Honor Guard tributes but never seen one as touching and personal as ours,” JJ said.

For loved ones, the ceremony serves as a powerful reminder that they're not alone—that others understand the sacrifices, challenges, and deep commitment that come with a life in nursing.

“I was a single mom for most of my nursing career,” JJ explained. “The families really appreciate what we do, because they went through all this with the nurse. Mom or dad couldn't be at volleyball games, couldn't be at PTA meetings, couldn't see you in the choir. When you had a special moment at school, they couldn't be there. Anniversaries, Christmas— we're all at work.”

The ceremony helps validate those missed moments, reminding families that those absences weren't in vain. Their nurse was making a meaningful sacrifice, dedicating time and energy to care for others in times of need.

Beyond Funerals

Only licensed nurses—RNs, LPNs, and APRNs in good standing—are eligible for the tribute, ensuring the ceremony maintains its integrity. But the Honor Guard's work extends beyond funerals.

“We're trying to focus more on honoring nurses while they're still living, as well as providing services at their passing,” Michele said.

The group now performs tributes for retirements and special occasions. One memorable event was a 95th birthday celebration for a retired nurse.

What makes the Honor Guard unique is its ability to unite nurses across all specialties and settings.

“Each specialty has their own professional practice group,” Michele said. “This is one of the only things in nursing that brings all nurses together. All that territorial stuff has gone away—we're all just nurses, honoring nurses.”

Everything the group does is 100% volunteer. No one gets paid. No family is ever billed. Members donate their time, uniforms, candles, and roses simply because they believe nurses deserve to be remembered with reverence.

A Calling Honored

JJ recalls walking into a service alongside a nurse's family, seeing and feeling the emotion.

“The gratitude, the tears, the sense of pride—they're so thankful someone took the time to recognize what their loved one did for others.”

“I like to say I've paid that debt several times over,” she said with a smile.

Her career began in oncology, caring for cancer patients, but the emotional toll quickly wore on her.

“I would see patients when they were diagnosed. I would give them their chemo. And then I'd see them again when they died,” she said. “It just felt like it never got better.”

Seeking change, she transferred to the emergency room, a fast-paced environment that was the complete opposite. She stayed there about 25 years.

Today, as she winds down her career, she works alongside Michele as part of a specialized vascular access team, caring for patients who are difficult to start IVs on. Both have spent the past 20-plus years in this highly skilled role, bringing their combined experience and precision to a critical yet challenging aspect of patient care.

Full Circle

Michele and JJ said being a member of the Nurse Honor Guard is a privilege and an honor.

“It's not just meaningful for the families—it's meaningful for the nurses, too,” Michele said. “We went to an alumni meeting for the Candler School of Nursing and met nurses who have been nurses since the early 1940s and 1950s. Just hearing their stories—I can't even describe what it means to hear all these stories and see how far nursing has come.”

Both Michele and JJ discovered their calling early. Michele heard hers before she was old enough to realize it was a calling.

“My mom said that even when I was four or five years old, when people would ask what I was going to do, I always said I was going to be a nurse,” she said. “I've always liked taking care of people and helping people and making a difference in people's lives.”

For JJ, inspiration came from watching her mother prepare for night shifts.

“I would see her put on that white uniform,” she said. “Back then, it was very strict. She had to wear a white uniform, pantyhose, and white shoes. She put that cap on before she left the house. It was an honor to put that cap on.”

Although the cap is no longer required, when she dons it for a ceremony, she takes her place alongside generations of nurses who preceded her.

After earning her associate degree in nursing, JJ returned to school for her bachelor's—both degrees funded by the hospital in exchange for a work commitment she more than fulfilled.

As part of the honor guard, Michele and her colleagues wear traditional white uniforms and capes reminiscent of the World War era—navy blue on the outside and red on the inside, a design once meant to help nurses be seen in wartime settings.

“We even wear the traditional nursing cap,” she added. “Especially after COVID, when so much in nursing changed, I think this just brings everything full circle.”

When asked why she has stayed in the field for nearly four decades, Michele didn't hesitate.

“Because I love it,” she said simply. “I love my patients. I love hearing their stories. I love being involved in their care and seeing them recover. Watching someone come in very sick and leave healthy again—it's incredibly rewarding. I can't imagine doing anything else.”

In a world where nursing often feels thankless, the Coastal Georgia First Nurse Honor Guard instills a sense of honor, legacy, and community.

“Nursing is a calling,” Michele said. “And this is our way of answering that call—one final time.” ■

Where Coffee Creates Community

Your perfect spot to pause, connect, and recharge

Our Mission

We believe that a great coffee shop is more than just exceptional coffee. It’s a righteous opportunity to serve humanity with purpose and GRACE.

At Grounds of Grace, we’re not just brewing coffee, we’re pouring love, resources, and connection into our local community, all while striving to be faithful servants in all we do.

- Jacob Clough Owner/Founder

POOLER

Flags for the Fallen at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, Pooler GA

HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE

Essential Preparation Tips from the City of Pooler

Hurricane season has arrived in South Georgia and the City of Pooler’s Floodplain Manager wants every resident to be prepared.

Know Your Risk, Know Your Options

The first step in hurricane preparedness is understanding your specific flood risk. Every neighborhood in Pooler has its own unique characteristics. Don’t guess about your risk level—get the facts. Find out about your specific property by contacting the City of Pooler at 912-748-7261 or visit www. pooler-ga.gov.

Protect Your Investment with Flood Insurance

Your standard homeowner’s or commercial insurance policy won’t cover flood damage. Flood insurance is essential for EVERY property owner in our area.

Don’t wait. Policies typically have a 30-day waiting period before they take effect, so the time to act is now, while skies are clear.

Talk to a local insurance agent to find the best rates and coverage options for your situation. Make sure your policy includes contents coverage too.

Create Your Family Emergency Plan

The best time to create a family emergency plan is before you need one. Sit down with your family and discuss these essential elements:

• Know Your Evacuation Route: Familiarize yourself with multiple routes out of Pooler.

• Establish Communication Plans: Designate an outof-state contact person who can serve as a central communication point for scattered family members.

• Identify Safe Locations: Whether it’s staying with family inland, booking a hotel, or heading to an official shelter, know where you’ll go if you need to evacuate.

Build Your Emergency Survival Kit

Store these essentials in a grab and go waterproof container:

• First-aid kit with necessary medications

• One gallon of water per person per day (minimum threeday supply)

• Non-perishable food for at least three days

• Flashlights and extra batteries and battery-powered or hand-crank radio

• Cell phone chargers (consider portable battery packs)

• Cash in small bills

• Copies of important documents in waterproof bags

• Emergency contact information

• Basic tools and supplies

Safeguard Your Valuables and Memories

Create a detailed inventory of your home and belongings and store these records, along with important papers and insurance policies, in a safe location away from potential flooding—consider a safety deposit box or cloud storage. Move irreplaceable items like family photos, heirlooms, and important documents to higher ground in your home, or better yet, to a secure off-site location.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

The Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) manages flood warnings for our area through public broadcasts and you can find detailed information about evacuation zones, routes, and shelter locations at www.chathamemergency.org.

Remember these life-saving safety rules:

• Never drive through flooded roads

• Stay away from standing water which may be deeper than it appears

• Keep children away from flood waters, ditches, culverts, and storm drains

• Avoid unstable stream banks during and after storms

Fun Frozen Dog Treats

After a long day at work or an eventful weekend, don’t just treat yourself to a delicious dessert – make sure you’re treating your pets, too. These homemade dog treats are easy to make with organic ingredients so you can show your pets some love while feeling confident that you aren’t putting their health in jeopardy.

Gather just a few ingredients and cute dog-shaped ice molds (like paws or bones) to give Fido the attention he deserves. The best part: these treats keep well in the freezer, meaning you can make a bigger batch to stay stocked up on your furry friends’ new favorite treat.

PEANUT BUTTER BANANA PAW-SICLES

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons organic peanut butter (no salt added, no xylitol)

• 1 medium ripe banana

Directions:

1. In blender, blend Greek yogurt, peanut butter and banana until smooth.

2. Place silicone molds on baking tray to prevent spills. Fill molds with blended mixture and freeze 3 hours, or until firm.

3. Store in freezer-safe container or zip-top bags.

BERRY GOOD DOG BONES