Lara Ryan - Northwestern Mutual

Honor. Remember. Say their names and share their stories. And enjoy with gratitude the things we can do on a day like today as blessed Americans living in this great nation.

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.
We gather on this day to be thankful for what we have, for the family we love, the friends we cherish, and for the blessings that will come. And for the freedoms we enjoy and those that defend them.
Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Independence Day!

Both gone many years ago, my father and grandmother in 1947.

To those who gave their lives in service of our country, we honor and remember you. Today is a solemn reminder of what you gave, but it is something we should lift up everyday. - by learning your stories and saying your names and supporting your families, living lives worthy of your sacrifice, and making your legacy our unfailing promise to remember and respect.

A shoutout to MIL SPOUSES!

You don't need a specific Military Spouse Appreciation Day to make sure you acknowledge the military spouse in your life. Service members know that their spouses are the ones who keep the home fires burning. And military spouses know that those around them also walking through military life are more than just friends and neighbors: They are family.

April is Month of the Military Child.
What are some of the characteristics that come to mind when you think about mil kids? Let us know below…⬇️

Happy New Year

Sincere gratitude to all those who have served and are currently serving for their willingness to put our country and our communities in front of all else. For their their dedication, commitment, and sacrifice, we owe them a debt we truly cannot repay. at the very least, we can be reminded that every day should be like today, where we appreciate all they have done on behalf of the greater good.

Seven years ago, I had the honor of helping to facilitate bringing the half-scale replica of The Wall to San Diego. It was an amazing experience, a chance to meet some truly incredible people, an opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifice made by so many (then and since!), and a lesson in the power of serving something larger than yourself.

One of the most heartwarming outcomes was being a part of conversations and connections between Vietnam veterans and those that have served - and continue to serve - in more recent conflicts. It was humbling to witness, and it forever confirmed my belief in our need as a country to never take for granted those willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms and liberties (the servicemembers and the families who stand alongside them).

The schedule of events as part of that week included honoring those that have served since 9/11. .caviezel_ generously loaned his tribute vehicle, and on today’s 9th anniversary of Extortion 17, I remember the brave souls who gave their lives - and the families they left behind.

Honor them by saying their names. Never forget.