Suiting Up for Life's Battles: One Veteran’s Lessons from Service, Faith, and Lifelong Learning

In both military life and personal development, there's a call to "suit up"—to be prepared, steadfast, and resilient in the face of challenges. The Bible provides a powerful foundation for this idea in Ephesians 6:10-18, where Paul encourages us to "put on the full armor of God." This passage speaks to each of us, whether in the military or daily life, reminding us that growth and strength require both inner and outer preparation.

? ?This past June, I traveled to Greece and Turkey, retracing the steps of the Apostle Paul. As I learned about his journey from place to place, his message resonated deeply. Paul urged others to be steadfast, ready for the trials they would face, even as enemies surrounded him. His faith, like the armor we are called to put on, was a constant shield that kept him moving forward. This reminder to suit up mentally and spiritually felt as relevant in Paul's time as it does for us today.

? ?For me, suiting up became second nature during my five years at military schools, from the New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) to the U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA). I'll never forget when, in 1990, as the Gulf War began, my Colonel asked if I was ready to be deployed after Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait. My answer was quick and clear: "You bet I am!" I hadn't gone through years of intense training just to sit at home when the action started. I was suited up and ready, both mentally and physically, to answer the call and serve with purpose.

? ?In the military, suiting up is literal and essential. Every day, service members put on their uniforms and gear not only for protection but also as a statement of commitment and readiness. This ritual mirrors the biblical call to arm ourselves with virtues—truth, righteousness, faith, and peace—gearing up for battles we face in all areas of life, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual.

? ??In personal development, suiting up means adopting disciplines, setting goals, and building resilience to overcome obstacles. Just as soldiers prepare for the unknown, we prepare ourselves with tools and habits that strengthen us. Each of us fights our own battles—against self-doubt, adversity, or fear—and our readiness to face these determines our success.

? ??Leadership is a lifelong journey of learning. My father, Charlie "Tremendous" Jones, imparted a legacy that has always stayed with me—the transformative power of books. Knowledge is our greatest power, a weapon against "stinking thinking" and the enemy within. We must keep our minds sharp and suited up, ready to face each day with purpose, courage, and resilience.

? ??This Veterans Day, let's remember that the journey of "suiting up" is universal. It reminds us of both the sacrifices of our veterans and the personal journey each of us takes to be equipped for life's challenges. In honoring their service, we're inspired to "suit up" each day with intention, gratitude, and faith, carrying forth the values that make us resilient, courageous, and prepared.

? ??In closing, thank you to all who are serving or have served. Your commitment, courage, and sacrifice inspire us and remind us of the values that make this nation strong. We are deeply grateful to you, as a nation, for your resilience and readiness to face any challenge. You are in our hearts and prayers this Veterans Day and always.

Aim High,

Tracey C. Jones, Maj (USAF)