Every veteran has a story

I noticed an older man at a store wearing a Navy baseball cap. But even without the cap, I could tell he had been military.

I wondered, what is his story? What did he do in the military? Did he serve in combat? Did he serve 20 years to retire from active duty? Did he enter the military from Brevard County or like many others, was he stationed here and decided it was a great place to live? 

Not to intrude, I just politely said, “Thanks for your service.”  But my curiosity about his story remained. 

Brevard is a special and unique place for veterans. The U.S. Census counted more than 65,000 veterans in Brevard. Add in active-duty service members and their family members, and it’s safe to say that there are more than 100,000 military and family members here. That’s 20% of the population! 

I’m an Army veteran who entered service from Brevard County. I’m no hero, but I served with a few, like my friend Lou Olivera, the first Ranger out of the first aircraft in Operation Just Cause in Panama. I worked for General Schwarzkopf of Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Now, I’m just as privileged and proud to know and work with fellow veterans, some who own and operate 4,800 veteran-owned businesses on the Space Coast. 

• Eric “Doc” Wright is a Navy and Army Reserve veteran who is tireless in helping veterans achieve lucrative and meaningful post-service careers. 
• Carrie Roberts is an Air Force veteran who specializes in helping people get the insurance coverage they need. 
• Johnny Fish is a decorated USAF Pararescueman, one of two commercial fishermen, both veterans in my neighborhood. 

Brevard also is unique in the way veterans are supported and treated after their service. 

Among local resources:

• Brevard Veterans Memorial Center on Merritt Island.
• The outstanding VA clinic, along with amazing Veteran Service Officers in Viera who work to ensure veterans receive the services and benefits they’ve earned. 
• A final place to rest at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery. 

So, the next time you see a friend who is a veteran or recognize a veteran, thank them not only for their service, but the sacrifice they and their family made to protect this nation. If you are inside a veteran-owned business, thank them for continuing to serve. And, if you know a veteran in need, direct them to available resources.  

We owe a lot to the men and women who served. Their stories and experiences are to be shared and honored, and their service recognized.