This statement comes from Troy Graham, who chairs the Port’s Veterans Employee Resource Group and is an IT Compliance Analyst at the Port of Portland

I retired from the Air Force (Air National Guard) 11 years ago and it only seems like a short time gone by. The military family is very diverse, and we establish many connections along the path of service. When our Veterans Employee Resource Group (ERG) meets, we often find ourselves sharing stories from our military experiences.

Along with employees in the armed forces, our Veterans ERG features spouses and family of those who serve. It is important to recognize these family members who often are left with more responsibilities at home when their servicemember deploys for training or combat. The extended military family also includes people at work and friends. I am thankful for the Port recognizing my military service and supporting me when I deployed in 2008/2009. My team in the legal department picked up the extra work while I was away and welcomed me back once my military service was done.

As we head into Veterans Day this year, I’m reminded of this quote from Abraham Lincoln: “Honor to the soldier and sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country’s cause. Honor, also, to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field and serves, as he best can, the same cause.”

Thank you to the Veterans and everyone who has supported them along their military career.