During a reflective moment in his life, President George H.W. Bush grappled with a profound question after being rescued as a young Navy pilot in World War II. Following a harrowing experience of being shot down over the Pacific near Chichi Jima, he was one of only three survivors and the sole one rescued. The USS Finback emerged from the waves to save him, an event that shaped his understanding of purpose. That night, under a vast sky, he asked God, “Why me?” This question, according to his longtime chief of staff, Jean Becker, reflected not self-pity but a deep sense of gratitude and purpose. President Bush believed his life had been spared for a reason: to serve others.
This philosophy of service resonates with the legacy of another remarkable individual, Fred Rogers, the beloved television personality known as Mister Rogers. He famously stated, “Love and success, always in that order — it’s that simple and that difficult.” A note found in his wallet after his passing succinctly captured his belief: “Life is for service.” Rogers, a graduate of Rollins College in 1951, was inspired by a plaque at the institution that continues to motivate students today. He viewed life as a mission to serve others, a sentiment echoed by countless individuals across generations.
The spirit of service is a hallmark of the men and women of the armed forces, both past and present. Their commitment to putting service above self is a daily testament to their integrity. The strength of the military lies not in its equipment but in its people. From the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of Afghanistan, soldiers have exemplified courage and sacrifice. This Veterans Day is not merely a time to reflect on battles fought but a moment to honor a promise: that freedom is worth protecting and that our neighbors are deserving of service.
This philosophy of service is deeply embedded in the culture of Rollins College. The Harvard Study of Adult Development, the longest-running study on human happiness, reveals that a fulfilling life is rooted in two essential elements: building strong relationships and finding purpose. Rollins fosters both, creating a vibrant community that encourages students to embrace service as a pathway to discovering their own purpose.
As we commemorate Veterans Day, it is crucial to honor our heroes through actions that reflect their values. This can be achieved by embodying the principles of gratitude and service that figures like President Bush and Fred Rogers championed. The question “Why me?” can serve as a powerful motivator to engage in acts of kindness and support for those around us.
In teaching future generations, we should emphasize that love is not a sign of weakness but a source of strength. Ultimately, a life well lived is measured not by personal achievements but by how we uplift and care for others.
Robert “Navy Bob” Roncska, a retired U.S. Navy veteran and a doctoral graduate of Rollins College’s Crummer School of Business, embodies this message of service and dedication. His reflections remind us that the essence of life lies in our commitment to one another. This Veterans Day, let us strive to follow the example set by these remarkable leaders and infuse our lives with purpose through service.
