Richmond, Va. –
If a picture is worth a thousand words, then one timely deed is worth ten thousand words, according to poet James Thomson. Serving our country is a prime example of a timely deed.
Employees within Defense Logistics Agency Aviation’s Supplier Operations Original Equipment Manufacturer Directorate on Defense Supply Center Richmond, Virginia created a Veterans Wall of Honor to reflect the bravery, sacrifice and strength individuals have made to preserve our freedoms.
More than 50 photos of veterans who work within the directorate, adorn the wall outside of Director Travis Beasley’s office. What started out as a way to say “thank you for your service” ended with hearty competition among the service branches within the directorate.
Army Veteran and Supervisory Contract Specialist Mary Williams assisted the directorate’s Deputy Director and Air Force Veteran Rob Baker, Management Support and Navy Veteran Michelle Jones and Purchasing Agent Christina Jones with building the wall and collecting photos.
“This is a way to celebrate the veterans in FM,” Williams said. “Currently the Army is winning – which makes me happy, as I am an Army Veteran.”
Williams, Baker, Jones and Jones began building the wall November 9, adding banners and military service crests.
“While putting up this wall and looking at all the photos, it took me back to when I was active duty in the Navy as a Morale, Welfare and Recreation Representative.” Michelle Jones said. “We did this sort of thing all the time. Like a lot of us, we went from boots to suits when we left the service. This wall is a reminder of those men and women I connect with every day, share the same honor and courage to serve and it is nice to know that I am among those who are devoted to the service and who continue to sacrifice.”
When asked what the Veterans Wall of Honor means to him, contract Specialist Barry Sessoms said, “It gives me a snapshot that tells a bigger story of what I and others have done to try and help make this world a better place for all.”
“I strongly believe in serving and treating others better than myself.” Sessoms said. “The Veterans Wall of Honor shows that it is indeed an honor and privilege to serve this great country and all of its people.”