November 11, Veterans Day, is a time to honor those who have courageously served in our Armed Forces.
This year we are honoring one of our employees, Frannie, a former US Navy Military Police Officer.
As we celebrate Veterans Day, what does it mean to you?
Veterans’ day for me is a day of appreciation for the brave individuals who have served. It’s a day to remember our sacrifices to the country and to each other. On veterans’ day, I started a tradition of contacting my fellow servicemembers whom I served with. We reflect on our time spent, the people we lost, and the bond that we built through service.
What influenced you to join the Navy?
I grew up on the south side of Chicago and there weren’t many role models or options for success. The JROTC program provided me with both. This was my first real look at a promising future path for myself. My daughter was also a huge part in my decision to serve. I wanted to light the way for my child to have a better future.
Are there any memorable moments that stand out from your time in service?
One memory that I can never be erased from my memory is the day one of my shipmates passed away in a car crash. I never could have imagined that I would build such strong bonds with my brothers and sisters in arms, but we did. When we found out on that cold night in Washington, we were all devastated. I remember the talks we used to have and the laughs, but what I remember most is the day we were doing a difficult PT run. Toward the middle of the run, I began to struggle to keep up with the group. Schroder came from the form of the ranks to where I was near the back. He began to run backward in front of me and started singing a cadence to motivate me to keep running. “We started together we’re going to finish together” is what he chanted. He passed a week later. I learned a great deal while serving and have had many memories, but the bonds and comradery are one of my biggest takeaways.
What did you learn about yourself while in the Navy?
I learned that I am resilient, brave, and courageous. I lived and witnessed parts of myself that I didn’t know existed prior to service. The military pulled the leader out of me.
Is there anything you wish civilians understood about the Navy?
I don’t think that there is any way to understand the sacrifice unless you live it, especially with service in the Navy. We miss important moments in our families’ lives all while enduring less than normal conditions for months at a time. The stress and weight we carry around is heavy at times and we don’t always get to enjoy normal liberties, which makes Veterans’ Day important.
How has your experience in the Navy influenced the way you lead your team at SpectrumAM?
The Navy taught me in more ways than one that you must care for the people who you work with and that work for you. This is a value I carry with me in my leadership. I am a participating leader, which in short means I am not afraid to jump in and get my hands dirty no matter if I am the Indian or the Chief, the job will get done. The influences of the Navy have instilled integrity, honor, courage in me so much so that I always do my best to practice this throughout my career.
What are some of your personal hopes and goals for the future?
My current goal is to buy a house here in Texas and return to Law School and complete my Juris Doctorate to become an attorney. It is my hope that through my example my own children will have the courage to go after the things they aspire to be in life.
Do you have advice for those considering the military?
The military will change the trajectory of your life in ways you couldn’t even imagine. It will also help you to grow and become a dedicated leader to the people you encounter. It was truly the best decision I’ve made.
At SpectrumAM, we are proud to have individuals from diverse backgrounds, several of whom are veterans.
We thank all the veterans across the United States for their service and sacrifice.
