On Wednesday, November 11, I was honored to attend the Veterans Day Commemoration at Dodona Manor in Leesburg.  This is a yearly celebration of our veterans hosted by The George C. Marshall International Center, Loudoun County, and the Town of Leesburg.  The event featured our local veteran organizations, local vets, and elected officials.  Despite the rain, this event was well attended and was a moving tribute to those that have risked everything to defend our country.  

At the event, guests heard from keynote speaker, Rear Admiral (Retired) U.S. Navy,  Thomas Lynch.  Admiral Lynch gave a great talk about his distinguished career in the Navy.  He spoke about the sacrifice and service of our women and men in uniform.  Admiral Lynch also spoke about George C. Marshall and his service to our country and the world. 

My favorite moment of Admiral Lynch's talk was when he described the creed he and his fellow sailors followed, "...ship, shipmate, self."  These three words were used to remind everyone onboard Admiral Lynch's vessel that the priority and focus when making a decision was to the ship, your fellow shipmates, and then your self.  It wasn't just about what's good for you!  It's about the whole ship, then your fellow shipmates, and then self. America, fellow citizens, self...that's the focus we need now.  We need leadership that puts our country first, our fellow citizens, and then themselves.  I hope we can all live by Admiral Lynch's creed a little more each day. 

Kudos to Master of Ceremonies, Dennis Boykin.  Dennis is one of our great Leesburg residents and follows the example Admiral Lynch set out.  Thank you, Dennis! 

This was a great event and I look forward to touring Dodona Manor again soon when it opens to public tours.  Happy Veterans Day to all of our women and men that serve and have served.  Thank you for your sacrifice and for making our country safe and secure.