“Memorial Day Reflection: Service & Sacrifice"

In honor of Memorial Day, I want to share a deeply personal story that Mayor Brian Vincent of Farmville, Virginia, graciously allowed me to record—and now to share with you.

After our Community Catalysts interview wrapped last February, Mayor Vincent stayed on to speak about his father, Lieutenant Colonel Rick Vincent, U.S. Army, who was killed in a nighttime training accident while preparing for the Gulf War. He was just 38. Brian was only 14.

What he shared isn’t just a story of loss—it’s a timeless reflection on character, legacy, and the quiet strength that defines true service. His father’s example continues to shape how the Mayor leads today—with humility, discipline, and a deep sense of purpose. If you listened to the original interview, you heard just how deeply that influence runs. “It always amazes me,” he said, “how quickly that emotion can come right back.”

This Memorial Day, I’m especially grateful to Mayor Vincent for opening his heart and reminding us that behind every fallen hero is a family forever changed, and a legacy that calls local leaders to likewise serve with courage, humility, and a deep commitment to the communities we’re entrusted to serve.

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