Oct 2, 2025

Voices of Valor: The Power of Song

At PureTalk, we don’t think honoring Veterans should be a box you check once a year. It’s not a campaign. It’s a commitment. When we launched Flags for Heroes, we asked folks to tell us about a Veteran in their life—someone who deserved an American-made flag and a simple “thank you.”

The stories poured in. Honest, humbling, sometimes heartbreaking. And out of those stories came Voices of Valor—a way to make sure the grit, sacrifice, and quiet heroism of our Veterans doesn’t get lost in the noise.

In this installment, we’re sharing more of those voices. More proof of what service really looks like. And more reasons to never stop saying thanks.

JAMES WALKER, U.S. ARMY

“Military service is an American citizen's duty when their country needs them.”

James Walker didn’t hesitate when the call came. Drafted into the U.S. Army during a time of need, he stepped forward with a sense of purpose rooted deeply in his family’s American journey. The son of immigrants who came to the United States from Sicily, James understood what this country had given his family—and felt a profound responsibility to give something back.

Though his service began with the draft, James quickly made a choice that would shape his military experience: he volunteered to serve as a Medic. It was a role that required both courage and compassion, and one that spoke to his deep commitment to helping others. But the Army would soon discover another of James’s talents—his voice.

Recognized for his singing ability, James was transferred to the First Army Division Chorus, a prestigious group that traveled the country performing at military events and entertaining dignitaries. From base ceremonies to social gatherings, James lent his voice to lift the spirits of service members and leaders alike, becoming an ambassador for the Army through music.

Looking back, James considers military service not just an obligation but an honor. “To me,” he says, “military service is an American citizen’s duty when their country needs them.” His story is one of service, sacrifice, and the unexpected ways in which a soldier can serve—not just on the battlefield, but through healing hands and the power of song.

DAVID NEVAREZ, U.S. ARMY

US Army insignia

“I am very proud of my time in the Army. I would do it all over again if I could.”

For David Nevarez, the call to serve came early. Fresh out of high school in 1971, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, beginning his journey at Fort Dix, New Jersey, where he completed basic training. From there, he headed to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, for combat engineer school, learning the vital skills needed to build, repair, and support Army missions in the field.

David’s first assignment was Fort Hood, Texas, but in 1972 his path led overseas to Korea. Assigned to the 44th Engineer Battalion, he spent 13 months honing his craft and wearing many hats. He drove 5-ton dump trucks, operated a 20-ton crane, climbed poles, and even served as a security guard at the main gate. It was demanding work that showcased his versatility and commitment to getting the job done—whatever the job might be.

When he returned stateside, David spent his final eight months of service at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, where he trained and served as a firefighter. It was there he discovered a new passion that would guide his civilian career. After his honorable discharge, he was hired as a federal firefighter at Quantico Marine Corps Base, continuing to serve those who serve.

Looking back on his Army career, David takes great pride in the skills he gained, the experiences he lived, and the service he rendered. “I am very proud of my time in the Army,” he says. “I would do it all over again if I could.”

His story is a testament to the many paths of service—whether behind the wheel of a truck in Korea, manning a fire hose in Virginia, or protecting lives at Quantico, David Nevarez’s legacy is one of hard work, resilience, and enduring pride in the uniform.

STEPHEN JEWELL, U.S. ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

“It was an honor to stand ready in service of our nation.”

Stephen Jewell’s military career placed him at the heart of the nation’s capital, where history and duty often intersect. As Operations Officer for the West Virginia CERFP—short for CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) Enhanced Response Force Package—Stephen carried an immense responsibility: to support national security at some of the country’s most high-profile events.

The CERFP is a specialized National Guard unit trained to respond to catastrophic incidents involving hazardous materials, mass casualties, and collapsed structures. In this role, Stephen and his team worked closely with the U.S. Capitol Police, the D.C. National Guard, and other federal and local agencies to ensure that, should the unthinkable happen, they could provide lifesaving support and help safeguard the continuity of government.

During his tenure, Stephen supported multiple Presidential Inaugurations and State of the Union addresses—events that drew global attention and required seamless coordination among first responders and security forces. “It was great to work with all the other first responders,” he reflects. “And to know we were there, ready to assist, gave me a deep sense of pride.”

For Stephen Jewell, service meant more than wearing the uniform. It meant preparation, partnership, and an unwavering commitment to protecting both the people and the institutions of the United States. His story reminds us that behind every historic moment in Washington, D.C., there are men and women standing quietly on the sidelines—ready to act when called.

JOHN MORRIS, UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

“Honor. Discipline. Dedication. It’s what being a Marine is all about.”

In 1995, John Morris stood proud at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, graduating boot camp as a Private First Class—marking the beginning of a distinguished career in the United States Marine Corps. What followed was a journey defined by discipline, technical skill, and a deep commitment to service.

After completing Marine Combat Training at Camp Pendleton, California, John advanced to basic electrician school at Courthouse Bay in North Carolina, training as an 1141—Marine Corps Electrician. His first major assignment took him overseas to Camp Courtney in Okinawa, Japan, where he served with the 3rd Marine Division, contributing to critical infrastructure and electrical operations in support of Marine missions abroad.

John’s skills were soon called upon stateside, where he supported the Weapons Technical Instructor Course at MCAS Yuma, Arizona in both 1997 and 1999. He furthered his technical knowledge by completing the Hazardous Waste Management Course in 1998 while stationed with Marine Wing Support Squadron 273 in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Among his most memorable experiences was participating in NATO’s cold-weather training exercise, Battle Griffin ’99, in Norway—an international operation designed to test and strengthen joint combat readiness under extreme conditions.

Throughout his military career, John Morris earned multiple accolades recognizing his dedication and expertise, including: Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Certificate of Commendation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Expert Rifle Badge, and the Sharpshooter Pistol Badge.

Whether maintaining vital infrastructure, supporting weapons training, or operating in the harsh terrain of Norway, John Morris embodied the core values of the Marine Corps: honor, courage, and commitment. His legacy is one of steadfast service, technical excellence, and unwavering pride in the uniform.

LONNIE GODFREY, U.S. MARINE CORPS & U.S. NAVY

“I served my country, I served my community, and I keep walking—because quitting was never an option.”

When Lonnie Godfrey raised his right hand and joined the United States Marine Corps on August 14, 1969, he was just a young man from Louisiana, ready to serve his country during one of its most tumultuous chapters. He trained at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California, before being deployed to Da Nang, Vietnam, in February of 1970.

During his year in Vietnam, Lonnie served in dual roles as a truck driver and a cook—both essential to supporting troops in a combat zone. After returning stateside in February 1971, he was stationed at Parris Island, South Carolina, where he continued his service until his honorable discharge in August 1972.

But Lonnie’s dedication to service didn’t end with the military. Just weeks after leaving the Corps, he began working as a janitor at the local VA Hospital. It was the first step in what would become a long journey of personal growth and professional advancement. In 1973, Lonnie enrolled at Louisiana College in Pineville while continuing to work at the VA. Within three years, he had earned a promotion to Accounting Technician—a role that aligned with his growing passion for numbers and financial stewardship.

In 1984, he left the VA to pursue entrepreneurship and opened his own accounting business. But the call to serve came again. In 1987, Lonnie joined the U.S. Navy in New Orleans as a Disbursing Clerk, managing pay and financial records for service members. Six years later, he took on a new challenge as a Navy Recruiter, helping to shape the next generation of sailors.

In 2003, after decades of service in and out of uniform, Lonnie was forced to retire due to the long-term effects of PTSD. The VA rated him 100% disabled, with a 70% disability specifically attributed to PTSD—a stark reminder of the invisible wounds so many veterans carry.

Today, at 75 years old, Lonnie lives in Gretna, Louisiana, just two miles from New Orleans. He remains active and disciplined, walking two miles a day, five days a week. “I’m in excellent shape,” he says. “I served my country, I served my community, and I keep walking—because quitting was never an option.”

Lonnie Godfrey’s journey is a testament to resilience, patriotism, and lifelong service. From the rice paddies of Vietnam to the neighborhoods of New Orleans, his life has been guided by duty, strengthened by faith, and marked by an unwavering commitment to keep moving forward.

These are just a few of the many incredible stories shared through our Voices of Valor campaign.

Each one is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices our Veterans have made—and the strength, integrity, and patriotism they continue to embody.