Stories of Service
They protect and save us.
We admire them and aspire to be like them. In uniform, in Our Communities, in every branch of the military, Our Heroes give their all —and sometimes the ultimate sacrifice.
These are their stories. On the eleventh of every month, we celebrate these selfless men and women with profiles of their service. Reflecting on their accomplishments and respecting each challenge overcome. Take note. Take pride. Please join us in honoring them here.
Celebrating 100 Years of Bethesda FD
During its 100 years of service, the Bethesda Fire Department has been an organization the residents of Bethesda and Montgomery County Maryland could count on through growth and change. “We carry on the traditions and experience and the service that had been provided by everyone who is in those portraits and pictures behind us. They laid the foundation for the organization and we’re continuing to carry that torch on 100 years later. We’re hoping that the legacy that we’re setting today in 2026 contributes to the well being and history of the organization. We’d love to see this organization continue another 100 years,” said Fire Chief Dan Blanfeld.
Make it Matter
“How can I find the inspiration to know what to say to these young men and women?” asked Retired Army General Martin Dempsey. “Then there was this phrase echoing in my head.”
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Remember. Honor. Teach.
Remembering our fallen U.S. Veterans. Honoring those who serve. Teaching children the value of freedom. That’s the mission of Wreaths Across America, and we’re proud to share their story here.
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These walls really do talk
Patches torn from sleeves of active duty military … helmets worn by men and women who braved all to serve. Every day, Mission BBQ is proud to display the courage, commitment and selfless sacrifice of...
“Many don’t know about us…”
Since the Revolutionary War, black men have served in America’s Armed Forces. Many saw combat but most were relegated to supporting roles. World War II changed all that. 97-year-old William Decatur Jr. shares his personal...
All Give Some, Some Gave All
Rescue 1 responded on that fateful day, 15 years ago. They lost nearly half their company, making it one of the most affected companies in the FDNY during the September 11 attacks.
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A Tight Knit Community
“We’re a brotherhood and sisterhood of public service, standing on the shoulders of those who came before us. It’s not just those behind that badge. It’s the family behind them.”
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High Impact Inspiration
Whether reconstructing roads and airways in Iraq, helping to track down high-value terrorists with Ranger Units, or building an economic partnership sourcing the world’s most coveted spice, Emily Miller inspires us.
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“IT HURTS AND WE GRIEVE”
This month’s Stories of Service sheds light, and tears, over those who sacrifice all. Learn more about the Special Operations Warrior Foundation and how it helps support their families.
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Building a Better Way Back.
The trauma of explosions. Firefights. IEDs. Marine 2nd Lieutenant Roy Fish experienced it all while providing convoy security in Afghanistan. Yet he knows firsthand how our veterans are leaving one battle and coming home to...
Utah Beach, France: Our Hero Was There.
70 years later, Retired Army Sgt. Claude Phelps received the Bronze Star for meritorious achievement in active ground combat against the enemy. Serving under General George Patton, Phelps admits he’s proud of what was done...
No Ordinary Life
Herman Zeitchik was there for the bravest deeds and most climactic moments that made history in World War II. He stormed the beaches on D-Day and fought during the Battle of the Bulge. Helped to...
Multi-Talented. Multiply Respected.
Light armored vehicle crewman. Able to assemble an M240Bushmaster. At MISSION BBQ and wherever the Marines deploy her in June, we admire Ashleigh McKee’s service.
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Over 7 Decades of Doing for Others
“I’m so glad we had a chance to meet.” So said President Barack Obama to Vivian “Millie” Bailey, age 97. And so are we, after her lifetime of service in the U.S. Army as well...
Army Vs. Navy. Brothers Forever.
“I want an Officer for a secret and dangerous mission. I want a West Point football player.” So said General George C. Marshall during World War II and truer respect was never said. Just as...
A Guy Who Gave His All
Navy Lt. Seal Brendan Looney always gave all, including his life for our country while bravely serving in Afghanistan. As a “great leader and teammate,” he believed in service before self—on the Naval Academy lacrosse...