For All Who’ve Served

On Veterans Day in the U.S., and Remembrance Day in Canada, we are reminded that freedom isn’t free. It comes with a high cost, paid by brave men and women who have served – and continue to serve – in our armed forces. Their sacrifice and service make our nations safer, stronger and more secure in the ideals that define democracy.

We are deeply grateful for our veterans and active duty military personnel who believe liberty is worth fighting for. Heroes who, in times of war and peace, give their all to make our countries shining beacons of hope. It’s because of that sentiment that my one regret in life is never serving in the military.

I am proud and humbled by the members of my own family – my dad, both my grandfathers, several uncles and my father-in-law – whose lives were forever influenced by their service in the military.

This includes my Uncle Russ, who was a P-51 pilot in World War II. One story about Russ that I often think about happened in 1943, when he broke his foot playing basketball in North Africa. As a result of the injury, he didn’t fly a mission the next day; a mission that, tragically, not one of his squadron mates returned from. From that moment on, as a way to give thanks for his second chance, Uncle Russ lived a life of giving back, charitably and otherwise, until he passed away at the age of 89.

Today at Waste Management, more than 3,000 veterans work in a variety of capacities across our organization, utilizing skills like engineering and construction, fleet management and transportation, all honed during military service.

Nearly one in 14 of our employees has fulfilled some form of military duty. One in 14 – an impressive statistic on its own, but even more inspiring when you meet the men and women in person. Folks like Damian Hendricks, an accomplished recruiter working in our Florida market to bring new talent on board. Damian served 10 years in the U.S. Army, did three combat tours and earned a Purple Heart.

I have seen first-hand the tremendous value that veterans bring to organizations fortunate enough to have them in their midst. Veterans are disciplined, accountable, organized and adaptable. They are strong team players and problem solvers. They put the mission first – in the trenches and in the workplace.

As we have been reminded of late, our military personnel also play vital roles here at home. During times of crisis and catastrophe, our National Guard and Reservists step up. They perform heroic rescues. They help restore essential services and infrastructure. They maintain peace and order. And they uphold the values of citizenship and civility.

We will not soon forget the striking images and stories of brave men and women responding in the aftermath of hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. They ventured into difficult, dangerous situations with unflinching focus on the safety and wellbeing of others – neighbors and strangers alike. We are grateful for and humbled by their valor.

Life is full of lessons. While only a brave few among us have fulfilled service to their country in a military uniform, there is much we can learn from them. Our veterans enlighten us on what it means to defend and uphold our nations’ ideals. They enrich our communities and countries. And they inspire us to protect our hard-won legacy of freedom and democracy.

To all who have served, in harm’s way and on the home front, we are thankful. For your patriotism, your courage and character. For your unwavering commitment to the values of grateful nations.

My Waste Management colleagues and I appreciate you on this special day – and every day.

Waste Management is a G.I. Jobs Top Military Friendly Employer, a Military Times Best for Vets Employer, and a Canada Company Military Friendly Employer.