Supporting the troops has been a longstanding tradition for many people across America. From tying yellow ribbons around trees to special events on Memorial Day and Veterans Day, Americans often come together to celebrate those who put their lives on the line to protect our freedom.
It is in that spirit of community pride that ERC recently participated in two events aimed at celebrating the contributions made by members of the Armed Forces.
On May 17, Jeffrey Richardson, a trainer with ERC and a 14-year veteran who served in the Navy was named a recipient of the Champions for Veterans Honor by the National Association of Veterans & Families.
Individuals receive the Champions for Veterans Honor by demonstrating the ability to improvise, adapt, overcome, and consistently show that they are loyal, passionate about what they do and have a sense of urgency about their daily performance. The awards are handed out at by the NAVF, which supports veterans and their families through benefit and outreach programs.
“I was truly blessed to be honored at this event and I couldn’t thank ERC enough for the support and love they have shown me,” said Richardson, whose father was also a veteran. “I believe my fallen brothers and my father would be proud of me for standing up there and accepting that award. I could feel their spirit with me.”
The following week, Richardson joined a number of ERC colleagues, including Army veterans Rob Butler and Keith Wiggins, in a ceremony at Jacksonville National Cemetery, where American flags were placed at the graves of fallen soldiers.
“Placing flags at the Jacksonville National Cemetery was truly an honor,” said Jessica Andriola, ERC’s Vice President of Talent Management, who also participated in the ceremony. “I had never been to the cemetery before and what I found was a peaceful resting place with beautiful bells that intermittently play which only adds to the tranquility. Being there helped me remember what Memorial Day is all about.”
ERC strives on a daily basis to uphold the virtues set forth by our Armed Forces and is incredibly proud to be able to celebrate not just ERC employees who have served, but everyone who has donned a uniform to protect our freedom.
“Our military stands before us every day.,” said Kim Howell, ERC’s Chief People Officer. “The least we can do is stand before them in remembrance and place a flag at their graveside. It was an honor to be able to participate in the laying of the flags alongside the ERC team and our very own Veterans.”
