March 2016 Hero of the Month: John Barfield
I happened to come across an article about a great but humble man who has done great things and been a mentor to many: John Barfield. He is my hero of the month. I hope you agree his story is…
February 2016 Hero of the Month: Detective Joseph Lemm, NYPD/ Sgt. Joseph Lemm, Air National Guard
I have often quoted Rick Lowry, as I did in my tribute to Bill Kristoff and his family (Hero of the Month, November, 2014): "Where Do We Get These People?" because I am so deeply moved by the patriotism exhibited…
January 2016 Heroes of the Month: George Takei and The Japanese-American Patriots of WWll
During the holidays, Julie and I were in New York City and had the opportunity to see the Broadway musical Allegiance. It was co-produced by our longtime San Diego friend, Wendy Gillespie, and started here at The Old Globe before…
December 2015 Hero of the Month: Mike Ehredt and His Beautiful Tribute to the Fallen
In 2010, Army veteran Mike Ehredt ran alone across the United States as part of his personal effort to pay homage and offer thanks to the fallen U.S. service members of the Iraq war. Ehredt called his tribute “One Life,…
November 2015 Heroes of the Month: Operation REBOOT and Operation REINVENT
I first became aware of Operation REBOOT thanks to the leadership of our dear friend Admiral Ronne Froman, U.S. Navy (Ret.). Ronne is one of the highest ranking women officers in the history of the U.S. Navy. After retirement, she…
October 2015 Hero of the Month: Sybil Stockdale
On October 10th, we lost a great American hero, Sybil Stockdale. Her spirted, effective and tireless advocacy for American prisoners of war in Vietnam saved countless lives. Her husband, Captain James Stockdale, was shot down over North Vietnam on September…
September 2015 Heroes of the Month: Unsung Heroes of 9/11
Last year on the anniversary of 9/11, I highlighted the vision and courage of Rick Rescorla. This year, on the 14th anniversary, it is time to honor the unsung heroes of 9/11. I have selected the people of Gander, Newfoundland…
August 2015 Hero of the Month: FOCUS (Military Families Overcoming Under Stress)
All too often we only hear about the deeds and sacrifices of our courageous men and women in uniform and not enough about their families. As a result of multiple deployments of their parents and loved ones, military families --…
June 2015 Hero of the Month: Gary Sinise
In my tribute to Team Rubicon (July, 2014), I promised to pay tribute to others who are making a difference in helping our Iraq/Afghan Veterans, who often have difficult transitions to civilian life. This month will be the first of…
May 2015 Hero of the Month: Denise McCluggage
I have stated in previous essays that I do not equate sports legends with heroism, with a few exceptions. Denise McCluggage is one of those exceptions. She was to sports car racing what Jackie Robinson was to baseball -- a…