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What is means to be a Veteran

A program honoring the the service of veterans within Region 8 and GSA was held today in the Remington Arms Room at the Denver Federal Center’s Building 41.

The highlight of the program was the keynote address by invited speaker Maj. Nicole Miner, Operations Officer, from the 759th Military Police Battalion based at Fort Carson, CO. 

Maj. Nicole miner gave the keynote address at the GSA Region 8 Veteran Program
Maj. Nicole Miner provided the keynote address at the GSA Region 8 veteran appreciation program on November 8, 2018. Photograph by Richard Stebbins

“Today is about remembering everything you all have done and the sacrifices your family has made,” said Miner.  “Thank you to your families and everything you have given to our country.”

Miner highlighted her story which included her journey as a minority woman in the military, along with providing context to what it means to serve in the military.  She pointed out there are service members that are currently deployed in a multitude of  countries around the world, including our own southern border where soldiers from her unit have been sent recently.

The elements that make up what it means to serve were brought out in Miner’s remarks. The camaraderie, a bond like family, teamwork, growth, the opportunity to work hard and push through challenges.  Those serving have a chance to grow and get better every day, not just individual growth but as an organization as well. That is what veterans who come to work for GSA or other federal agencies bring with them.

“Strong, resilient, determination, honest, teamwork, flexibility...these are the words that come to mind when you meet a veteran,” said Miner. She concluded by reminding us to think about what we can do to support our military/veterans and family. 

Also providing remarks was veteran Rachel Wesley, Lead Financial Analyst in Region 8, about her experience in the military and how that shaped who she is today.

“As member of the military family, we serve together and serve to protect everyone.  We created a bond that follows us for the rest of our life,” said Wesley.  “It is because of that military bond that I have so many non-blood family members.”

This year’s Veteran’s Day marks the 100th anniversary of the ending of World War I, also known as the Great War.  The day we now call Veteran’s Day was first known as Armistice Day after major hostilities formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. It was not until 1954 that the name was changed.

The Thomas Jefferson High School Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps provided the color guard for the event as well as flag bearers for each of the service flags.  Members of Fort Carson’s 4th Infantry Division Band provided the music for the National Anthem and the service songs as well.

Speakers and program planners pose for a group photo.
Rachel Wesley (far left), Tim Horne, acting regional Administrator, Katie Gates, and James Foster (right) pose with keynote speaker Maj. Nicole Miner (center) after the GSA Region 8 veterans appreciation program. Photograph by Richard Stebbins


 

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Last updated: Nov 13, 2018
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