Our speaker for our Veterans Day program was VFW member Major General Robert P. Stall (Ret.)

The key themes of his presentation were:

1. Personal Experiences and Reflections:

   • Major General Stall shared anecdotes from his military career, including early service as a platoon leader, his time with the 82nd Airborne, and a memorable assignment alongside the United States Marine Corps during the Iraq War.
   • He recounted a moving experience speaking to children at a Veterans Day school event, where their curiosity and aspirations highlighted the enduring influence of military service.

2. Veterans Day and Military Contributions:

   • Emphasized the importance of Veterans Day as a time to honor the sacrifices of service members.
   • Provided historical context about Veterans Day's origins on November 11, 1918, and shared inspirational quotes underscoring the freedoms preserved by veterans.

3. Veterans Court and Community Impact:

   • Highlighted the Veterans Court initiative in Cleveland, founded by Judge Michael Jackson, a retired Marine Corps officer. The court holds veterans accountable while addressing the unique challenges they face, promoting rehabilitation and respect.

4. Military Leadership and Values:

   • Reflected on leadership lessons from General James Mattis and General Carter Ham, emphasizing their roles in shaping military policy and strategy.
   • Discussed the foundational values taught in basic training—loyalty, respect, and integrity—and their role in building a strong military force.

5. Upcoming Events and Legacy Projects:

   • Announced the commissioning of the USS Cleveland (LCS 31), a littoral combat ship, scheduled for October 2025. This event will mark the first time a naval vessel named after Cleveland is commissioned in the city.
   • Encouraged attendees to visit the Lone Sailor Statue Plaza near the Great Lakes Science Center, commemorating Cleveland’s connection to naval service.

6. Challenges and Opportunities:

   • Addressed recruitment challenges, including societal and physical eligibility barriers, and underscored the importance of offering diverse career opportunities within the military, from cybersecurity to logistics.
   • Expressed concern about China's growing naval capabilities and the need for the U.S. to maintain technological and strategic superiority.

Broader Insights:

• Strength of an All-Volunteer Force: Highlighted the professionalism of the all-volunteer military and the critical role of non-commissioned officers as the backbone of the armed forces.
• Geopolitical Dynamics: Discussed the importance of maintaining global leadership and readiness, especially in light of potential challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

Closing Message:

Major General Stall expressed his gratitude to veterans for their service and encouraged community members to support upcoming initiatives like the USS Cleveland commissioning. He celebrated the enduring strength, professionalism, and readiness of the U.S. military, emphasizing its critical role in safeguarding freedom and democracy.