Honoring the men and women who defend our freedoms

HEROES AMONG US

On Monday, the nation will celebrate Veterans Day, a day dedicated to honoring the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who've bravely and selflessly defended our freedoms. Growing Bolder is proud to salute those who have served by preserving their stories for future generations. We have talked with those who served in every major conflict over the past 100 years, from World War I through Operation Iraqi Freedom and the war in Afghanistan. We believe it is crucial for us to hear their stories to forever honor the great sacrifices these men, women and their families have made. We've shared a small sampling of their stories below. For more, click here to visit our Veterans page on GrowingBolder.com and join us in saying thank you.

The African-Americans who became known as the Tuskegee Airmen fought not only our enemies overseas, but also prejudice at home. At 95, Richard Hall is among a small handful who remain. He shares his thoughts, his memories and wisdom about war and life.

Betty Wall was one of a handful of female pilots in World War II. After the war, she thought that part of her life was over. But then she realized she owed it to her friends — and herself — to make sure we never forgot about their contributions.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John Raaen enjoyed a distinguished military career that included excelling at West Point, storming the beaches of Normandy on D-Day and tours of duty in Korea and Vietnam. Now 93, he doesn’t like to look back but knows it’s important to preserve his stories for history.

Sgt. 1st Class Joe Kapacziewski is the first and only amputee in Army Rangers’ history to return to combat, and he did it a stunning five times. He explains why he realized amputating his injured leg was the only way to maintain his active lifestyle.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out to us about our BOLD new issue of Growing Bolder Magazine. We hope this issue, which highlights and celebrates the fierce and fearless women of the sandwich generation, is inspiring you to keep growing, keep moving forward and keeping kicking butt, despite all the many challenges you're facing. If you haven't picked up a copy yet, subscribe today. We offer home delivery, annual digital subscriptions and individual issues. Growing Bolder Magazine also makes the perfect gift for the person who has it all and is doing it all but could use a little encouragement. We even offer a printable gift certificate to let your recipient know something a little BOLDER is heading his or her way!