Leadership Lessons From My Dad

I am deeply proud to be the daughter of a Veteran.

My father served in the Vietnam War with Company C, 4th of the 12th, 199th Light Infantry Brigade. His service has shaped him into a man who lives with unwavering values: God, Country, Family—a commitment he upholds with quiet humility every day.

Through his military experience, my father learned how to assess, act, and lead with purpose. He leads by example—whether he’s making strategic decisions in a high-pressure moment, treating others with deep respect, or taking deliberate action to get the job done. He approaches every situation with thoughtfulness, integrity, and a focus on outcomes, and he carries these traits in every aspect of his life.

Growing up, I was fortunate enough to witness this leadership up close. At the time, I didn’t fully recognize the significance of having a front-row seat to such powerful examples of responsibility and discipline. But looking back, I now see how those moments shaped me, influencing the leader I am today.

My father’s example has also inspired our family’s values of kindness, honesty, and respect. These aren’t just words to us—they’re principles we live by, particularly in how we interact with one another and with the world.

We all face challenges that shape us. And while we can’t always control the circumstances, we can choose how we respond. Today, I challenge you to reflect on one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to influence the world around you: through intentional kindness and respect.

Here are a few small actions you can take today:

• Say thank you to a Veteran for their service.
• Hold the door open for someone.
• Let another driver merge in traffic.
• Write a personal note or send a message of gratitude to someone who’s made a difference in your life.

These simple acts might seem small, but they ripple outward, creating a wave of goodwill. We each have the power to be a change agent, to make someone’s day a little brighter, a little easier, and a little more respectful.

Imagine the impact if every interaction was rooted in kindness and respect. What would our world look like if we all chose to lead with compassion in every moment?

So today, I ask you: What will you do to make a positive impact on someone else’s life?