Serving the Nation: A Life Embodying JFK’s Vision

John F. Kennedy famously encouraged us to ‘ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country’. Reflecting on my life, I can truly say that this ethos has guided my journey, from military service to my career and family life.

My Journey Began Early

I began my life’s work in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at the tender age of 11, cutting grass and shoveling snow. I then went on to take up a variety of jobs, including a newspaper route, bowling pin boy, vault boy, and even serving as a clown at a circus. These experiences taught me the value of hard work and responsibility, instilling a sense of productivity that would stay with me through the years.

Military Service: A Pillar of Honor

My service in the U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1959 on a World War II destroyer marked a significant turning point in my life. I served as a Leading Petty Officer in the Weapons Division and Military Police, leading cold war squads that deployed to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and the Middle East. My roles included cruise book editor, ship photographer, and librarian, positions that combined leadership and a passion for documentation and communication.

In addition to my professional duties, I was involved in various training exercises and deployments, contributing my efforts to repel borders and support naval infantry squads. My service tackled multiple areas of national security and defense, reflecting the multifaceted nature of my role in the military.

Building a Legacy

After my honorable discharge from the Navy, my professional career took off, leading me to pursue a bachelor's degree in computing and supporting mainframe technology. Over the next four and a half decades, I worked as a product support specialist, computer technology instructor, supervisor, and manager. My involvement in education and training extended to teaching graduate-level courses and developing new mainframe courses, a testament to my commitment to knowledge and skill development.

I took great pride in my work for the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), securing a Top Secret clearance and contributing to their respective missions. My roles included authoring and publishing whitepapers and teaching courses, showcasing my dedication to national security and technology innovation.

Life's Purpose and Volunteerism

My life extends far beyond the corporate boardroom or the military barracks. In the realm of community service, I have volunteered for numerous organizations, including the Junior Chamber of Commerce, where I had the opportunity to attend an address by Martin Luther King Jr. Additionally, I have been a member of the NAACP, serving on the board for over a decade and five years on a school board. My commitment to volunteerism has taken me to various capacities, including being a Sunday school teacher, church deacon, and trustee, as well as working as a volunteer at a Christian thrift shop.

My family life has also been abundant with fulfillment. I have been married for fifty years, raising six children and two foster children, for a total of eight children. I have thirteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, a testament to my meaningful contributions not only to the nation but also to the next generations.

Global Perspective and Personal Growth

Between active military service and extensive travel, I have visited over eighty countries, a journey that has further solidified my belief in the global community's kindness and the spirit of cooperation. This diverse experience has not only broadened my horizons but also deepened my appreciation for the diverse cultures and people I encountered.

My life is a testament to what JFK exhorted us to do—contribute to the nation and make the world a better place. By staying productive, creative, and involved in great causes, I have strived to embody the ideals of patriotism and service.

Conclusion – By living up to JFK’s quote in my daily life, I have not only served my country but also enriched my own life and that of my family. This journey has been filled with achievements and personal growth, with an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place, one act of service at a time.