S
TILL SERVING
2012
Military Retiree & Veteran Awards
| DECEMBER 6TH | TWO THOUSAND AND TWELVE
MILITARY
NEWSPAPERS OF VIRGINIA
HONORING THOSE THOSE WHO SERVED THEIR COUNTRY IN UNIFORM
AND CONTINUE TO SERVE HAMPTON ROADS
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T
here has been a lot of press this past year regarding veterans’ employment and benefits. President Barack Obama continues to champion the need for employing former service men and women, having signed the “VOW to Hire Heroes Act” legislation in November of 2011, providing tax credits to businesses that hire veterans. There is no doubt that our region benefits greatly from the influx of highly skilled, well-trained labor. The leadership skills and technical expertise that military retirees and veterans bring to our local businesses is invaluable. However, little attention has been paid to how these individuals contribute outside the workplace. These retired and veteran military have served our country and continue to serve our region by making significant contributions to the Hampton Roads community through their philanthropic and volunteers efforts. They do not ask for recognition, but contribute every day out of their sense of service and commitment. It is part of their mission to make Hampton Roads a better place to live and we are lucky that so many have chosen to make Hampton Roads their permanent home. This December marks the second year that The Flagship and Military Newspapers of Virginia will host STILL SERVING – The Military Retiree and Veterans Awards. STILL SERVING is a recognition program that celebrates the service and achievements of these dedicated individuals. This year we honor 11 individuals whom we feel have made significant impacts in our community and make Hampton Roads a better place for all. Our committee selected these individuals based on their volunteer accomplishments and for going above and beyond working with the military and/or civilian communities. We thank them for taking time out of their busy schedules to help select this year’s honorees. Our committee members included: Tom Leisher, MCPO, USN (ret.), Chairman, Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Veterans Affairs; William P. Knight, RM1, USN (ret.), Secretary, FRA Branch 60; Alonzo Scott, 1SG, U.S. Army (ret.); Aaron Zielinski, Lt. Cmdr., USN (ret.), 1st Vice President, Hampton Roads Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America. Most importantly, we would like to thank the following businesses for sponsoring the 2012 STILL SERVING AWARDS – our presenting sponsor, United Concordia, GEICO, Navy Mutual, Tidewater Community College and the USO of Hampton Roads and Central Virginia. Their generous support helped to make this event possible.
Publisher: Laura Baxter
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2012 STILL SERVING HONOREES.
Editor/Designer: Rebecca Hastings Creative Director: Tricia Lieurance Photographer: Harry Gerwien Published by Military Newspapers of Virginia 150 W. Brambleton Ave., Norfolk, VA 23510 Phone: (757) 222-3990 | Fax: (757) 853-1634 Editorial: (757) 222-3970 Advertising: (757) 222-3990 Classifieds: (757) 222-3990
MILITARY
NEWSPAPERS OF VIRGINIA
sales@militarynews.com The contents of this special section are not necessarily the official views of or endorsed by the U.S. Government, DoD, the DoT or the U.S. Coast Guard. Opinions of the contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Military Newspapers of Virginia or The Flagship®. The availability of these newspapers and the appearance of advertising in these publications, including any inserts or supplements, do not constitute endorsement by the federal government, the DoD, the DoT, the U.S. Coast Guard or Military Newspapers of Virginia of products or services advertised.
Thank you for all you do for the Hampton Roads Community.
2012 STILL SERVING 3
“There is not another organization, either military or civilian, that provides the range and scope of information to retirees provided by the RAO volunteers. Gene’s leadership and dedication, and his tireless management of the complex, multifaceted RAO program have made an enormous, positive difference in the lives of thousands of retirees. Combining his active service years with volunteer years, Gene Crabtree proudly ‘Still Serves’ after 56 years!”
2012 STILL SERVING VETERAN OF THE YEAR
— Kathy Nelson, Director, NMCRS Norfolk and Marguerite Tackett, FFSC Regional Program Manager
Gene Crabtree Navy | Master Chief | Served 1952-1983
Why did you decide to stay in Hampton Roads after your service?
Why did you decide to volunteer with the Retired Activity Office (RAO)?
Job security, retirement benefits, enjoyed the military environment, travel and educational benefits. I retired in Tidewater due to having lived here for 20-plus years and was very entrenched in the civilian community of Virginia Beach and the support services offered by the military in the area.
I attended a retiree seminar in 1984 and wanted to continue to be apart of the military community, and a need of a feeling to still belong to the Navy. So, I started to volunteer in January of 1985. Medical benefits for retirees and dependents was a big deal in 1985 and being a retired HM (hospital corpsman), I felt I had something to offer the retired community. I am currently the director for retired activities Hampton Roads (Norfolk and Little Creek offices), and coordinator for the Retired Activities Offices in the Mid-Atlantic Region (NRMA). The RAO provides assistance to retirees, retiree family members, surviving spouses, former spouses and active duty preparing for retirement. We council them in survivor benefits, pay, medical, veteran benefits and any other benefits they may not be aware of that are due to retirees. Also, we help in obtaining copies of records, correction of records and any other request they may have. We help all services and their dependents. We all are military retirees.
Describe some military highlights. I spent 10 of my 30-plus years at the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, eight years as an instructor for the independent Hospital Corps School. Instructor duty was very rewarding in that you had a opportunity to help shape the careers so many Navy men and women who are the finest paramedics in the world, bar none.
What are your achievements or fond memories outside the military? Used my G.I. Bill and went to Tidewater Community College, earned a certificate in woodworking and furniture repair, and an Associate’s degree in horticulture. Three years on the SECNAV Retiree Council (was there when we got TRICARE For Life). Eight years as a City of Virginia Beach Planning Commission.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community? Every military retiree should be required to give 100 hours per year in volunteer service to some government agency in order to continue to receive retired pay. There are over 2.5 million retirees and this would aid our local, state and federal budgets greatly.
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“Not only has she given her time and her talents, Diane has given her heart. She not only continually campaigns for donations for the homeless shelter, she also engages with the vets there. Talking with Diane, I can see that she is not only impacting them, they are impacting her. I can count on Diane to act quickly to those who call our chapter in need.” — Alisa Baldwin Friend and fellow Blue Star Mother
Diane Beavers Army | Specialist 4 | Served 1977-1983
Why did you decide to stay in Hampton Roads after your service?
Why did you decide to volunteer with Blue Star Moms?
There was a career opportunity to serve local government, the city of Hampton. I retired in Sept. of 2012 with 29 years of service to the Emergency Communications Division (911).
We are a non-profit, sanctioned by Congress in 1942, chapter of the Blue Star Mothers of America. Currently I’m serving as Vice President of Virginia Chapter 3 – Blue Star Moms of Hampton Roads. I chose this organization for its mission: supporting the families of those with sons or daughters serving their country, perpetuating the ideals of continuing to support them when they leave the military and become veterans of the military. We are all one, connected in some way, and it is my love for my self and all people that drives me. It is not for recognition.
What are your achievements or fond memories outside the military? Raising two sons, who grew up as part of a Public Safety family. Their father, my husband, a retired police officer, and myself, a retired Emergency Service employee in 911). Both are now military veterans – one a Marine Corps veteran and the other an Army veteran. They too are in public service, serving the city of Hampton – one is a police officer and the other is a medic/firefighter.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community? Support those veterans. Love them – use your talents and skills to volunteer. This is a reward in itself! Contact the Voluntary Services office of any Veterans Affairs Medical Center to find your need.
Why did you decide to volunteer at the Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center? Since the summer of 2009, I’ve volunteered as a seamstress with the Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center. My assignment there is in the Voluntary Services Clothing Room, where any in patient veteran or homeless veteran, can shop free for clothing. All the clothing is donated by wonderful loving human beings, many are veterans themselves, who have been supported by one of the programs provided by the Veterans Affairs. If the clothing is in need of repair or altering, that is my role. The number of homeless veterans is astounding. Any one of our son or daughter veterans could become homeless in the blink of an eye (job loss, hidden injury/ emotional scaring, physical injury).
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“Bruce LaLonde for his tireless and unselfish devotion to mentoring was named the 2012 Virginia Mentoring Partnership ‘Mentor of the Year.’” — Jeri Prophet | Colleague and Employer
“My father makes it hard to follow in his footsteps, but I couldn’t be prouder! He truly cares about his family and community. Whatever project he takes on he is 150% involved!” — Courtney LaLonde | Daughter
Bruce LaLonde Navy | Captain | Served 1974-2000
Why did you decide to stay in Hampton Roads after your service?
Why did you decide to volunteer with Team Up Mentoring?
I was raised since I was 5 in Portsmouth, Virginia and did all of my Public Schooling in Portsmouth. Since my roots are deep in Portsmouth, I came back after I retired in 2000 to take care of my mother (she died in 2010), and to give back to the community that shaped my values – work hard, get a solid education and take care of others.
Team UP Mentoring (which replaced the Hampton Roads Big Brother/Big Sister program in 2007) allows mentors to serve as role models to youths, many of whom come from single parent homes or from foster homes. Most simply desire time with a caring, responsible adult. Having raised four beautiful and successful daughters, and wanting to help disadvantaged boys in Portsmouth, I chose the Team UP Mentoring program as one of the first volunteer organizations to participate. Not only have I been a Team UP mentor since its inception, I am also on their advisory committee. I enjoy most of my weekends and time during the summer with them – teaching life experiences (helping others at shelters) and being a safe harbor. Our relationship is built on trust – they are free to talk about anything.
Describe some military highlights. Spent the 200th birthday (1976) of the United States at Anchorage off of Greece with an Amphibious Task Force awaiting orders to evacuate Americans from Lebanon. Onboard our ship was Alexander Haig (NATO Commander). Met President Clinton at the White House as part of the Navy’s support of his private dining facility. Proudly served on afloat units stationed on both East and West coasts. I was named to the Secretary of Defense’s panel to examine the operations of military exchanges. Investigative travel took me to exchanged located in Iceland, Italy, Germany and Spain.
What are your achievements or fond memories outside the military? I’m very active with elementary education (I serve on the boards of the Portsmouth Schools Foundation and STARBASE-VICTORY, reading programs to 2-5 year-olds and serve on the board of Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia. There is nothing more satisfying then seeing the expressions on a 3-year-old’s face when I animate a captivating story about “Scooby-Doo” to them – it makes you realize how simple things should be.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community? Do it now and give back often. We have been fortunate in our military careers to meet fantastic people, travel to far away places and to be entrusted with tremendous responsibilities. By sharing the challenges and successes we had along the way, we will no doubt help blaze the trail for those we protected while we were on active duty.
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“Donald Hodge is very dedicated to volunteering his time to individuals, as well as organizations. He does so with great joy and he expects nothing in return. As a retired chief petty officer, he carries himself not as being an authoritative figure, but as a servant. It is nothing uncommon to see him sweeping floors and mopping bathrooms. He still sets an example for people to follow.” — Roderick Vincent Williams Friend
Donald Hodge Navy | Chief | Served 1979 - 1999
Why did you decide to stay in Hampton Roads after your service? This was an easy decision. The ministry that I’m actively a part of is located in Norfolk. My two children were born in Norfolk. There was opportunity for employment. And finally, approximately 85 percent of my military career was spent in various Hampton Roads commands. The Navy and I had a win-win relationship. When I negotiated orders, the Navy kept granting me my requests.
Describe some military highlights. I cannot think of anything that stands out other than the fact that in 20 years of service, I’ve never been disciplined to the point of been placed on restriction, extra duty or violating the UCMJ (Uniform Code of Military Justice). I vividly remember as Food Service Attendant in the Wardroom, being selected as a waiter by my CO and XO to serve at a formal dinner during a port visit to Portsmouth and Plymouth, England. I was extremely fortunate to have ships make port visit to my hometown (United States Virgin Islands) as a crew member. I had the opportunity to visit Mombasa, Kenya and Somalia. I also had the good fortunes of visiting several cities in Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and last but certainly not lease, Diego Garcia.
Why did you decide to volunteer with the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia? I heard about volunteer opportunity from a military officer and fellow parishioner. I love helping people and the Foodbank presented that opportunity. The goal of the Foodbank is to stamp out hunger and that’s OK with me. I just recently completed 16 hours of volunteer time, collecting food and monetary donations during the annual Mayflower Food Drive.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community? By serving others, you add value to your life here on planet Earth. There’s no greater honor than serving those in need.
What are your achievements or fond memories outside the military? The opportunity to accompany my senior pastor to Haiti to visit and fellowship with the churches. Recipient of three Silver and one Gold President Volunteer Service Award.
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“I am recommending Mrs. Betty Miller for this award because she has continually gone out of her way to assist with all programs our Veterans Service Organization sponsor to support veterans, active duty and their families. ... Even after being diagnosed with cancer, she has continued to volunteer her time between treatments. She is dedicated to assisting veterans, active duty and their families.” — Alonzo Scott American Legion Volunteers
Betty Miller Navy | Chief | Served 1975-1999
Why did you decide to stay in Hampton Roads after your service?
Why did you decide to volunteer with the American Legion Tidewater Post 327?
I served most of my nearly 24 years of active duty in Virginia, my home state. I have many friends here and I love being close to the beach. I met my husband of 17 years here.
Twenty-five years ago I had heard several of my shipmates talking about Post 327, so I decided to stop by and have a look to see what I thought of it. I was impressed. The legionnaires were so nice to me. I was a petty officer third class and signed up as a member of the honor guard. I attended parades in Virginia Beach, and sad to say, many funerals and funeral homes where I participated in a very small ceremony for the deceased member. Several years ago I was asked to be the adjutant for the incoming commander, Jim Dunning. I accepted and enjoyed it so much I did another two years. Apparently, I did a good job because I was selected as the Legionnaire of the Year in 2007. That’s the last year that Post 327 received 100 percent in membership renewals for which I received a pin for my Legion hat. I ran for commander and served in that office for two years in a row. I enjoy doing membership, so I am now the first vice commander, which is membership chairman. We have over 1,000 members.
Describe some military highlights. Portsmouth Regional Medical Center was my first duty station. My detailer inadvertently sent me orders to the hospital to be the chaplain’s yeoman, but that didn’t happen because I had not gone to school to be qualified. I reported to Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Seiliet who didn’t know where to place me for duty. You see, I was the only yeoman on the base. All of his troops were corpsmen. He tried to send me to their training, but I refused to go. I was fresh out of my yeoman “A” school and ready to start work in an administrative office, but the senior chief had me making military ID cards and standing duty at the hospital reception desk. I was so frustrated during that first year in the Navy that I almost got out. I complained to my detailer and finally got orders to Norfolk Naval Air Station and had one of the best tours of duty in my career.
What are your achievements or fond memories outside the military? One fond memory is having my mother attend my graduation from St. Leo University with my Bachelor’s degree. I was the first one in my family to attend college and the Navy paid for that education.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community? I highly recommend they join the American Legion or the Veterans of Foreign Wars, or the Fleet Reserve, and help other veterans and their community.
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Photo Courtesy Department of Defense
WE SALUTE OUR VETERANS! Navy Mutual honors those men and women still serving their communities.
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Jeff Oster Marine Corps Lieutenant General Served 1963-1998
“Jeff has gone above and beyond volunteering in the traditional sense by performing all functions of this full-time leadership position as a non-paid volunteer. For the past two years, he has provided dedicated service and leadership to this missionary organization. ... His unique form of servant leadership has inspired the staff to provide an excellent standard of service in meeting the spiritual needs of warriors, chaplains and military families of all branches of service. He is a team-builder who seeks to provide a positive environment necessary for all to flourish and achieve their goals.” — Cynthia Odom Military Ministry Staff Member
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Why did you decide to stay in Hampton Roads after your service?
Why did you decide to volunteer with the Military Ministry?
I came to Hampton Roads to serve as the voluntary executive director of Military Ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ.
In 1998, I became a member of the Executive Committee of Military Ministry and then in 2001 I became the chairman of the Executive Committee. In December of 2010, when the ministry unexpectedly lost their executive director, I was asked to become the interim executive director as a volunteer. After several months, I agreed to remain on as executive director and serve in a volunteer status for a season, the length of which is known only by the Lord.
Describe some military highlights. In my career, I had the privilege of visiting more than 20 countries and meeting many interesting people around the world. Some highlights: Cold weather training at Mt. Fuji, Japan and jungle training in the Philippines and Thailand in 1964, South Vietnam War 1995/66 and 1969, Desert Warfare training in the Mojave Desert in 1971, 1986-89. Interesting meetings: Richard Nixon, Bill Clinton, George Bush, seven different Secretaries of Defense, numerous Senators and Congressmen.
What are your achievements or fond memories outside the military? My membership, worship and ministries in various churches and chapels during and after my Marine Corps career and my many years with Military Ministry. My volunteer actives including: Military Ministry, Chairman of the Board of Directors (2000-2007) and Chairman Emeritus (2007 to present) of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, Vice Chairman of Board of Governors of the Marine Corps Association (2003 to 2009), Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors (2002-2010) and Chairman of the Board of the Navy Mutual Aid Association (2010 to present), Member, Advisory Board, Humana Military Healthcare (2002 to present).
Why did you decide to volunteer with the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation? I became a member of the board of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation because I believe that educating the sons and daughters of Marines is both a reward for the honorable service of their parent and critical to the future of this nation. Education is the foundation upon which both the freedoms and the economy of this nation rest.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community? As I tell everyone with humor, “If you are reasonably competent and also willing to work as a volunteer for free, there are an unlimited number of opportunities to give back to the community.” That said, giving back and being a blessing to others is both a privilege and a duty of those who have been blessed with the wonderful freedoms we enjoy in this nation.
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“Jeri Prophet utilizes available resources to hold bimonthly classes for veterans seeking employment, stepping into the civilian workforce. The classes cover such areas as resume building, marketing yourself, interview skills, networking, etc. By combining resources she is able to offer these classes to veteran students free of charge. ... I am convinced she is so successful because of her ‘can do,’ ‘everything is possible’ attitude.” — Kristine St.Peter Friend, Employee
Jeri Prophet Navy | First Class Petty Officer
| Served 1992 -2002
Why did you decide to stay in Hampton Roads after your service?
Describe NowHiringVeterans.com and your role with the organization.
I came to Hampton Roads in 1995, when I reported aboard the USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) in Norfolk. In 2002, when I transitioned out of the Navy, I was able to get a good job and Virginia Beach is a great city to live in. You have the theatre, the ocean and my sons, and I did not want to leave their Gigi.
In May of 2011, I founded NowHiringVeterans.com as a means to assist prior military service members with a free source for employment listings, and tools specifically aimed at companies who would best benefit from their years of experience. Companies are always on the search for employees who can accept large amounts of responsibility. What better place to look than military veterans, who are accustomed to operating and maintaining large tracts of government property, multimillion dollar weapons systems, and a seemingly-endless number of logistical support systems such as aircraft, computer networks and ocean-going vessels. Military personnel are trained to assume tremendous responsibility in the areas of their job-related expertise, on-the-job attire and adherence to codes of conduct. Hiring military veterans is an excellent way of showing our appreciation for their service to their country. Plus small businesses do not have time to post jobs and wait, on NowHiringVeterans.com, they can login and start calling my qualified candidates and it is free!
Describe some military highlights. I was given the opportunity to author and manage the Navy’s highest level of computer systems engineer course, “Advanced Network Analyst.” It was really the top gun for Navy Information Technology Professionals. I led the most talented four women in the field of IT and loved my job. While serving, I was able to do things no young women had ever done. I participated in the pre-ops to allow women on Navy combatant ships, I was welcomed aboard Navy submarines, I soaked in the sun on the 04 level in the middle of the Atlantic on a fine Navy Ship, I survived a hurricane at sea on AS-39, I launched off an aircraft carrier and traveled the world, but best of all have a cadre of friends and family that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
What are your achievements or fond memories outside the military? I have achieved many things outside the military, but being able to mentor other veterans and assist them with job hunting while helping my fellow CEO’s find good qualified employees is the best.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community? Don’t talk about it, be about it. In other words, help your comrades whenever you can, and not for the glory, but because while we are sleeping in our beds tonight, someone is out there in the freezing cold standing watch to ensure that we are safe. Appreciate it and let them know it whenever you can. Remember that it used to be you. They are underpaid and overworked and just want to know that someone is thankful of what they are doing.
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“He never lets heat, cold, rain, or distance stop him from carrying out his assigned duties as a sports official. In season, the games are his priority. He trains new officials, he gives of his time to do whatever is needed in an officiating capacity. He goes above and beyond to help other officials obtain uniforms and gear, identifying resources for them and even delivering merchandise. ... He is modest and does not seek recognition for what he does.” — Rosemarie S. Hughes Wife
Roger Hughes
Navy | Lieutenant Commander | Served 1968-1988
Why did you decide to stay in Hampton Roads after your service?
Why did you decide to volunteer with the Virginia High School League (VHSL)?
I was raised here and my family still lives here. Even though I initially ended up with employment in other states, I eventually managed to return and live here.
I was a sports official for many years before retiring here, and continued after retirement. Since the VHSL is the controlling entity for high school sports, it was very easy to become involved. I officiated baseball, softball, basketball and football for them. As a part of this, we would give rules clinics to teams during their preseason scrimmages and officiate their out of season work-ups. Even now, I believe in giving back and helping other officials get better and enabling the schools to improve in their knowledge of the rules of their sports.
Describe some military highlights. All our deployments during the Vietnam-era were important since the Cold War was in full activity. We were always in the presence of Russian naval forces and brinkmanship was always a concern. The Soviets would always try to disrupt our maneuvers and we would always try to anticipate not creating an international incident at sea. My most interesting tour was as the joint duty officer (officer-in-charge) of the Panmunjom UN office. My office was physically in North Korea. Again, prevention of an international war paramount. The most significant incident was when a North Korea guard pulled a pistol on then Senator Bob Dole. The Senator was quickly, and safely, escorted away.
What are your achievements or fond memories outside the military? Walking both my daughters down the aisle and my grandchildren. The relationships built and nurtured after my military service. Volunteer work with Boy Scouts, my church and with charitable fundraising. Giving back to my community is the highlight of my activities outside the military.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community? My advice for those separating from the military is to think outside the box. You next job may not involve any of your military skills, so don’t be afraid to try something new. You may want to start at the bottom or even volunteer for a community service organization, your church or synagogue. This is one of the best ways to network, because a future employer will see that you are willing to work hard. Another thing to consider, is if financially able, is to use the time after separation to rebuild family and/or personal relationships that may have been strained by military deployments. These relationships are lifetime events that will continue long after you finally decide to retire. Finally, if you decide to go into business for yourself, get good legal advice and/or spend time with friends and associates who have done the same thing.
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“Melinda has touched so many lives the many generous ways she gives of her time and compassion for the military family. Although she no longer serves as active duty, she hasn’t slowed down at all making a difference every day through her GS work and volunteerism. ... Melinda has never asked for anything in return for the many times she has given of herself and her time.” — Bryan P. Zimmerman Husband
Melinda Zimmerman Navy | Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class | Served 1998-2003
Why did you decide to stay in Hampton Roads after your service?
Why did you decide to volunteer with the Autism Awareness?
My spouse selected orders to the area for a Riverine Squadron. I was last stationed here at Boone Clinic in Little Creek and I enjoyed the area – especially the various family attractions.
My son Avery was diagnosed with autism in 2005 while we were stationed in Camp Lejeune, N.C. I spent months in research in order to understand and assist Avery in being a functional as possible. My research lead my husband and I to select Newport, R.I. as our next duty station due to their proactive foundations for children with autism and that is where I began my journey of getting involved with other families. I volunteered with Autism Awareness in their annual Walk for Autism event. In the years that we were stationed there, we were able to bring the base Chief Petty Officer Association and the staff of Naval Health Clinic New England out to support Team Avery. We got involved in the Navy and YMCA youth sports program to include Avery into more socialization and encouraged other families with autistic children to come out and play soccer. There wasn’t a sports program in the summer season, so my husband and I developed our own Summer Soccer League and several children of various levels of autism that all participated and really enjoyed the feeling of teamwork and socialization. While stationed there I assisted four families in discovering the programs and assistance available to them due to the special needs of their families.
Describe some military highlights. I began my Navy career in Camp Lejeune as a hospital corpsman working in the field with the Marine Corps School of Infantry. The work was challenging, but rewarding, learning all the Marine Corps infantry tactics and covering all physical events. I the served in the hospital in the Labor and Delivery Ward assisting in the delivering and care of newborns. I enjoyed the miracle of life and the role that I played in bringing so much joy to the families under my care. For my next set of orders I found myself in Naples, Italy working in the Emergency Medicine Department as ambulance staff. I discovered my calling between running the ambulance and leading junior Sailors as training petty officer for the department.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community? The best advice that I can give to someone finding themselves separating from the service is don’t wait for someone to offer you the chance to get involved, seek out and make your own opportunities. Remember fortune favors the brave!
Why did you decide to work with NMCP after your service? After moving to the area and working at PSD (Personnel Support Detachment) Little Creek for a few months. I began to miss the camaraderie that there is in a medical command. I currently work for Clinical Research and Investigation at NMCP. I were several hats in my department. I chose to work for this department because we are the hub for all research conducted in NME. Research is the key to the success of medicine. Whether is training for our MD’s, research about military combat medicine or cutting edge research in general.
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Eager for success, accustomed to risk, focused on community Failure. It’s not an option for our service members. They train, they practice, they plan, they pack, they retrain and they practice again. Failure is not in the cards. Only the unforeseen could overcome them. So why would a service member, after retirement or separation from the military, embrace a life fraught with failure? Why would he purposely head down a path full of obstacles that could overturn everything? Why would she choose a career where most fail? Yet, that’s what vets do when they choose entrepreneurship. Want to scare yourself? Search “failure” in the Small Business Administration website. It’s a wonder anyone enters such a field. Especially someone who is trained, utterly ingrained, to choose efficiency, effectiveness, success above all. It’s a paradox I couldn’t shake at a recent national entrepreneurship conference I attended. Sitting among rows of vets who have launched, or are launching their own businesses, I tried to put the pieces together. They were among the loudest clappers when the speakers reminded the energized crowd that entrepreneurship was a minefield of failure, and yet, the gateway to economic stability. That’s when the pieces started clicking together. Vets are eager for success – they hunger for it. And yet, they are accustomed to risk. Risk far greater than a sunken business. Had they feared insurmountable odds they would have stayed in their parents’ basements. They can keep the mission in their crosshairs with
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By Tiffany Silverberg | Contributing Writer absolute precision and not shutter when the obstacles come their way. They don’t make choices because the risks are low, but because the payoff is high. High standards. High quality. Highly focused mission. That’s what drives veteran entrepreneurs into the danger zone of small business management. That’s what I learned from veterans, such as Carl Churchill, of Lock-n-Load Java. “The military teaches you a lot – discipline, mission focus, duty, self motivation, sacrifice, loyalty, honor, and of course, leadership and teamwork,” said Churchill. “I think all of these concepts are critical to success as an entrepreneur. I know that is what motivated me to incorporate those concepts into our business when we formed Lock-n-Load Java. The sense of mission and service we addressed by focusing on providing a superior product with superior service while giving back to the military community with our charitable giving and coffee for troops programs.” There’s more. Military service members are innately, intently focused on helping others. They are competitive, but not at the risk of those around them. When we all succeed, we succeed individually. Veteran entrepreneurs know the value of community and are hyper driven to build one, even in the solo life of an entrepreneur. “One of the hardest things about transitioning out of the military is leaving a life of service and mission focus along with a loss of the camaraderie you develop as part of a team,” Carl admitted. “Those two aspects of military service are what I missed most when I moved to the civilian sector.” What do they do about it? They help each other. In those conference halls, and in the months following, I watched as veterans went out of their way to make connections – even sharing advertisers, marketers, sponsors and other potentially competing opportunities. Because for them, failure is not an option. And working together, they saw, they could continue to serve their country by building jobs, the economy and ultimate sustainability.
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“Christine is a wonderful volunteer and role model who inspires girls to become leaders today and to prepare for their futures. She is willing to help out with any project, no matter how small or how challenging. She also has the ability to make each and every person she works with feel important and know they each have a gift to give as individuals. We are seeking her help with our advocacy efforts to help girls learn tools to address relational aggression, an anti-bullying program. — Marcella Germanotta Girl Scout volunteer
Christine Schweiss Army | Lieutenant Colonel | Served 1992-2012
Why did you decide to stay in Hampton Roads after your service?
Why did you decide to volunteer with the Girl Scouts?
We decided to stay in Hampton Roads because we had been here stationed with Joint Forces Command and Joint Forces Staff College for 7 years and had put down a lot of roots here, most notably in all of the volunteer organizations and children’s activities. We love the area for many reasons – a big city with a hometown feel, the perfect cultural blend of North and South, the climate, the central location and easy access to many parts of the Eastern U.S., continued access to military bases to make use of retiree benefits, and so much to do for families. We couldn’t fathom leaving. This is our home!
I grew up in a Scouting family. All five of my brothers are Eagle Scouts, and both my sister and I are Gold Award Girl Scouts. My parents were active Scouting volunteers – my dad on Boy Scout Committees and my mom as my Girl Scout leader. There was no question that my own kids would be in Scouts, as well, so I became my daughter’s Girl Scout leader and started a Daisy troop when she was in Kindergarten. I led that troop for four years before we moved from Chesapeake to Virginia Beach. Since that time, I’ve volunteered with various activities including being a Cookie Mom, and I continue to lead my daughter, who has since opted to be a Juliette (independent) Girl Scout due to her schedule.
Describe some military highlights.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community?
I deployed to Haiti in 1994 in support of Operation Uphold Democracy, served as a Company Commander in U.S. Army Space Command in Germany in 1998-1999, taught at West Point from 2002-2005, and deployed to Iraq in 2008. The Iraq deployment was a by-name request from General Petraeus to help stand up an Interagency Task Force, which was my specialty. While serving there, I volunteered with the U.S. Embassy’s program to help restart Iraqi Scouting – once a premier Scouting organization in the region, but had been turned into something akin to the Hitler Youth (Saddam’s Lion Cubs) by Saddam Hussein. We ran the Green Zone Council and had day camps and other activities, including a Pinewood Derby, for the Iraqi Scouts. One of my other specialties in the military was working with Non-Governmental Organizations, such as those working in the humanitarian and conflict resolution / prevention fields. This is something I could see myself doing once my kids are grown.
Your community needs you! Your military service gave you leadership and organizational skills that are critical to leading volunteer efforts. The people of the community are eager for you to step up and organize great opportunities for their children! Take some time to survey what the community has to offer, and either apply your skills and passion to existing organizations, or look for gaps where you might create a new organization or offering that would benefit the community. If you still have young children, you’ve spent enough time away from them during your career, and you don’t want to take time away from them in order to volunteer – so look for ways to volunteer in activities that would benefit them directly. That is what I’ve done – I volunteer with six or seven different organizations, all of which involve my own kids’ activities.
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“As the disaster chair and lead, Wesley Werling was responsible for all aspects of the disaster operation and training that comes with the volunteer position. He worked along side the executive director and raised funding to support the services provided by the Red Cross in disasters, blood, Armed Forces Emergencies and CPR/First Aid. Wesley organized the disaster plans and held a leadership position at the chapter.” — Julie Dudley Executive Director, Red Cross
Wesley Werling Air Force | Lieutenant Colonel | Served 1966 - 1988
Why did you decide on the Hampton Roads region after your service? I live on the Northern Neck — Heathsville, Virginia. I am originally from New Orleans and hunted and fished all my life. I wanted to go back after retirement, but my wife from Franklin, Louisiana (Cajun land) did not desire to return to the land of mosquitoes and humidity. She discovered the Northern Neck. We have a wonderful home on the Great Wicomico River. I can fish and hunt all I want. And I do.
Describe some military highlights. In 1973, I was assigned to the tactical Airlift Instructor School at Little Rock AFB. Following that I was assigned to a quick reaction program and was stationed to the Lockheed Plant in Ontario, California working on various C-130 aircraft modifications. I participated in Operation Eagle Claw, the attempt to rescue the hostages in Iran in April 1980. I went as far as Masirah Island. I was assigned to the Pentagon in 1981 and supported the program I worked at Lockheed Ontario. One highlight of the Pentagon assignment was a one-on-one with Barry Goldwater. I was to brief a classified project to him to request emergency funding.
What advice do you have for those separating from the military who wish to continue serving their community? Find a way to stay involved. Join MOAA, or any organization supporting our military. Keep up with current affairs and do not hesitate to write your Congressman. More and more of our elected officials have no military experience.
Why did you decide to volunteer with the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA)? I am a lifetime MOAA member. MOAA is a great organization and looks out for our well being, both active and retired. As retired member of the Armed Forces, I feel we need to keep our military strong and prepared to respond to any threat to our national security. We need to stay involved with Congress to keep them aware of the needs of active duty forces. A MOAA member recruited me for the local chapter. I serve as the first vice president in the Northern Neck Chapter. I am responsible for obtaining the speaker for chapter quarterly luncheons.
Why did you decide to volunteer with the American Red Cross? A friend asked me to join the local chapter board of directors. Shortly after joining, the disaster committee chairman gave up the duty and I assumed (volunteered for) the position. Since I was retired, I was looking for ways to serve the community when the opportunity popped up. I was responsible for recruiting, training and employing all volunteers for disaster response. I served as disaster chairman for five years and provided assistance to disaster victims through a few of storms and many single home fires. Our chapter covered five counties.
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