A Journey of Respect
Respect is a fundamental human trait that is essential for building healthy relationships and communities. It involves recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances.
With this blog we launch our Respect Campaign, where we will highlight the stories of individuals who have faced hardship, overcome challenges, and achieved greatness through their hard work and determination. These individuals serve as inspiration for us all, and demonstrate the transformative power of respect in action.
Through their experiences, we can learn valuable lessons about how we can all strive to treat others with kindness, compassion, and respect. Whether you are seeking to overcome your own challenges or looking to make a positive impact in your community, these stories will remind you of the importance of treating others with respect.
Also in Ascend Together Initiative
Memorial Valor Foundation
Memorial Valor Foundation's mission is clear and unwavering—to remember, honor, and memorialize fallen Special Operators by providing support to their Gold Star families, and the SOF families whose loved one is no longer with us. They achieve this through annual flagship events like the Memorial 3-Gun Competition, along with newly introduced galas, golf tournaments, and skeet shoots. Each event uniquely commemorates heroes by sharing their stories, celebrating their legacies, and providing vital support to their families.
Stories of Honor: Matthew Lewellen
Matt Lewellen’s life is a testament to the power of leadership, patriotism, and resilience. Through the memories shared by his father, Charles Lewellen, we see a man whose legacy continues to inspire. Matt’s humor and camaraderie lifted spirits, even in the most challenging moments, and his unwavering dedication to his team and mission exemplified the best of humanity.
Stories of Honor: Don McFaul
After stepping away from the Navy in 1985 to pursue civilian life, Don soon realized that the challenges, camaraderie, and sense of purpose within the SEAL Teams were irreplaceable. He returned to the Naval Special Warfare Community in 1988, sharpening his skills at the Defense Language Institute for Spanish before joining SEAL Team FOUR. His deployments took him across the globe, including missions in the Persian Gulf and Panama, where he served with Naval Special Warfare Unit EIGHT.