Stories of Service

Anthony D’Amico credits the love and support of his family with bringing him back from the trauma he experienced during his time serving in Iraq. “I finished my time in the Marine Corps in 2012 after my tour in Iraq and at that point I wanted to continue my service. Service itself is in my […]

Joe Chornock has found himself in the unique position of being a Probationary Firefighter at the age of 71-years-old. He is starting over with a new fire department after 48 years in the fire service that saw him rise through the ranks from paramedic-firefighter to Battalion Chief. Today, Joe brings his wealth of knowledge to

Kelly Manzolillo finds comfort in sharing her brother’s story. “The pain and the loss, it definitely comes in waves. At first it’s very dark days and sadness. Then it starts to get better. The loss is painful at first, but as you go on and you are able to share the stories, it gets easier,”

Amir Edwards experienced a life changing event a few years into his law enforcement career with the Detroit Police Department. He had become a police officer as a way to have a positive impact on his community but, following that event, he found himself at a crossroads. Amir felt that he could have fallen into

During World War II, Ed DiProsoero served with the Army’s 36th Infantry Division, a unit known for its fierce combat in Italy, France and Germany. Despite a bout with Malaria and later a shrapnel injury, Ed rejoined his unit to fight on the front lines during some of the most decisive events of the war.

Army Spc. Shannon Chihuahua was serving as a Combat Medic in Afghanistan during Operation Bulldog Bite to push back Taliban Fighters. He provided immediate emergency care to his fellow soldiers when they were injured during battle. He was saving lives while risking his own. Shannon Chihuahua was killed in battle while treating his squad leader

Jake Ruser was drafted in March of 1943. When he arrived at training, he was told that he wouldn’t be carrying a gun because he would be training as a Combat Medic. He saved countless lives and was witness to some of the most historic and pivotal moments of World War II, including the landing

In June 1943, Ben Berry had just completed high school when he was drafted into the US Army. He travelled to Europe to join the 863rd Quartermaster Fumigation & Bath Company, providing the important support services the Army needed. That all changed quickly during the Battle of the Bulge. “We had rifles, we had to

Joe McElhenny served in the US Army and in the FBI, leading him to teach his six kids about the importance of service. “I think that prompted the three of us to go into the service. Being in law enforcement, three of us chose that path as a direct result of the upbringing that we

“I’m not married. I don’t have any children. But, I’ve raised over 150,” said Judy Buddensick. Since 1998, Judy has volunteered as a Sponsor Mom for the Midshipman at the United States Naval Academy. She offers support and a home away from home during their time at the Academy. Judy has formed life long bonds