Eric’s Blog

Good morning, and thank you for inviting me to speak on this special occasion. I am OSCM Eric Schmidt, Command Master Chief at Surface Combat Systems Center, Wallops Island.

Many of you may refer to us as “The Navy at Wallops.” We are located on Wallops Flight Facility, and although we are a small Navy command, we have a vital mission that directly supports our Fleet. We have the operational team and combat systems, with RADARS and senors needed to conduct realistic tests to support the ships in the fleet. Our unique maritime location here at Wallops provides the best value to the Navy for this testing and support. Bottom line is that, before the complex defense systems are deployed, they are tested at Wallops; and they must work because our Sailors, which may be your sons, daughter, brothers, sisters, grandchildren, or other family or friends, depends on it.

Today we are here to honor our Veterans. Much of what we do on Veterans Day is ceremonial. In ceremonies across the nation, we remind ourselves and others of the many virtues of military service. But we should find additional, tangible ways throughout the year to recognize and help our veterans.

Our man and women in uniform have taught us about strength, duty, devotion, and resolve; cornerstones of a commitment to protect and defend that has kept our country safe for over 200 years. In war and peace, their service has been selfless and their accomplishments have been extraordinary.

Even after our veterans take off the uniform, they never stop serving. Many apply the skills and experience they developed on the battlefield to a life of service here at home. They take on roles in their communities as doctors, police officers, engineers, entrepreneurs, teachers, mothers, and fathers. As a grateful Nation, it is our task to make that transition possible; to ensure our returning heroes can share in the opportunities they have given so much to defend. The freedoms we cherish endure because of their service and sacrifice, and our country must strive to honor our veterans by fulfilling our responsibilities to them and upholding the sacred trust we share with all who have served.

As our sons and daughters continue to answer the call to support and defend our nation and our freedoms, by serving around the globe, they, and you as a veteran, represent a fundamental truth. It is not the powerful weapons that make our military the greats in the world. It’s not the sophisticated aircraft, missiles, satellites, or cyber technology that makes us the most advanced. The true strength of our Armed Forces is the spirit and the skill of our men and women who have worn, and now wear the uniform of our nation’s military.

So today, let us celebrate American Veterans whose service continues to make possible the ideals and security of the United States of America. Let us pause and remember those fellow Veterans that have passed, those currently standing the watch, and those that will bear the burden, share the honor, and be humbled in the future.

To those Veterans here today, I thank you for all of your sacrifices and the example you have provided for generations to come. I also thank you for being Americans worth serving for. Thank you and God bless.