Semper Fortis

Veterans Day is one of my favorite days of the year. It bids me to remember and celebrate my fellow Veterans and gives me a sense of pride in a job well done.

The Navy was a challenging career, to be sure. As with any career, it had its good and bad, highs and lows. But throughout those 22 years in the Navy and Navy Reserve, I met the best of the best people, faced some crazy scary moments, and had so many unique experiences it’s hard to remember them all.

Veterans Day is a day when the nation honors Veterans. I hear the words and see the signs that thank us for our service, and I’m touched by the ways so many businesses and communities show their gratitude. Your kindness and generosity of spirit are appreciated more than you probably realize.

Although the Navy has no official motto, I’ve always been partial to the unofficial “Semper Fortis.” Always Strong summarizes what I’ve always known about the Navy and its Sailors. It’s the motto I’ve strived to live up to all these years. It’s my North Star.

Today, I’m thinking about all my shipmates and friends, our grand adventures, struggles, and achievements. Happy Veterans Day doesn’t begin to cover what I feel about our time together, but it’s handy.

Bravo Zulu, my friends. Bravo Zulu.

YNC Bonnie Brooks Roberts, USNR(Ret)
Semper Fortis